“He brought them out of darkness and the deepest gloom and broke away their chains. Let them give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love and His wonderful deeds for men, for He breaks down gates of bronze and cuts through bars of iron” (Psalm 107:14-16).
Sometimes my pain feels like a prison. Whether it’s physical pain or the mental anguish of anxiety and depression, I feel trapped and unable to escape. Then these words are of great encouragement to me. During one of my worst moments I made notes on this chapter listing all the things God does for me. I go back to that list continually.
God leads me and shows me where to “settle” when I’m wandering (verse 7). He gives direction on where to go or what to do when I need guidance. And if I choose unwisely, He can bring good even out of that.
He satisfies my hunger and thirst (verse 9) when I feel dissatisfied with my life, pulled by the world, or longing for some unknown fulfillment.
He brings me out of the darkness and gloom (verse 14) of anxiety, despair and depression, bringing victory over these behaviors if I cling to the truths of His Word rather than my own thoughts.
He heals me by His Word (verse 20). Even when God does not physically remove my suffering, His written Word heals my heart and mind.
He stills my storm and guides me to my desired haven (verse 29-30). In the chaos and confusion of life, He brings a peace not of this world.
He turns my deserts into pools of water and my parched ground into springs (verse 35). He may use others along with His Word to bring me relief, and He may use my suffering to minister to others.
All this He has done and will continue to do. Let me give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love and wonderful deeds in my life!
Prayer: My Savior and my God, whether You free me literally or spiritually, “Set me free from my prison, that I might praise Your name (Psalm 142:7). Amen.
About the author:
Bronlynn Spindler lives in VA and is blessed to have the support and encouragement of a wonderful husband and three grown daughters. God’s grace and strength have brought her through thyroid cancer and ongoing back pain, depression, headaches, and fibromyalgia. You may view her blog of devotionals at
www.aplaceofsprings57.blogspot.com.
You can now read this on your Kindle. Find out more at http://TodaysDevotionOnKindle.com
Last Sunday Rest Ministries featured an article on rather than just counting our blessings, to record how God has been faithful in our lives. Have you had a chance to start doing this yet? Pick just one promise today and write down how God has fulfilled it in your life
What a touching devotional! I am well acquainted with the prison of pain and despair. The way you word your thoughts is so tender, that is the only way I can think to describe it. Your loving Father “stills my storm and guides me to His desired haven.” Thank you for your touching words.
Sandra Platt