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TODAY’S WORD…

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‘Why does your face look so sad when you are not ill?

This can be nothing but sadness of heart.’

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– Nehemiah 2:2 (NIV)

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A happy heart makes the face cheerful,

but heartache crushes the spirit.

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– Proverbs 15:13 (NIV)

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The human spirit can endure in times of illness,

but a crushed spirit who can bear?

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– Proverbs 18:14 (NIV)

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REFLECTION…

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Heartfelt sorrow breaks the spirit.

The feeling of dejection is reflected in a person’s expression.

In fact, there is great sympathy between the body and the mind,

and one is much affected by the other.

When the heart is full of sorrow,

the human spirit is low.

Sadness weakens one’s strength and destroys one’s spirit.

…but a crushed spirit who can bear?

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“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened,

and I will give you rest.” (Mt 11:28)

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Jesus calls us to go to Him, always,

but especially when we are feeling desperate and helpless.

We have the liberty to go to Him, to the Throne of Grace, at all times.

He wants us to share whatever burdens we have with Him

…and He will lovingly encourage us and guide us

and He will help revive our broken spirit.

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But the Lord also wants us to help ourselves

and He wants to see serious and continuing endeavours on our part

aimed at sorting out our issues as good Christians should.

We need, therefore, to pray incessantly

and to discern carefully and ensure that we are follow His prompting and suggestions

which, on the other hand, we must be ready and open enough to recognise and accept.

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We need to keep the eyes of our heart on Jesus

and He will direct us, assist us and bless us,

and lead us to that true and lasting peace and joy.

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REPETITIVE PRAYER FOR TODAY…

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Jesus, my Lord, direct me, assist me, bless me,

give me Your peace. Thank You, Jesus.

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