The Struggle Is Real by Nita Kuehn
I am writing this today to apologize for the many times we have disregarded your pain; minimized the impact of an event; or, only had a discouraging word. Only you know how something has affected you emotionally, spiritually, and/or physically. Forgive us for not hearing your distress or dismissing you with a brief, “I’ll add it to my prayer list.”
The struggle is real. Life is full of disappointments and feelings of helplessness or hopelessness which can drive us to despair. We sometimes even wonder if life is worth living. Although you may be surrounded with people that care, sometimes you still feel alone and abandoned – even, at times, invisible. Perhaps as family or friends we have failed to love you in a way that brings healing, encouragement, or comfort. Perhaps, instead, we abused you or made you feel condemned. I am so sorry.
But I am here to tell you of ONE who has always been there and in no way condemns you. God truly cares about your every thought and feeling; He has caught your every tear in a bottle; and He even knows the number of hairs on your head. He understands your pain and sorrow and truly cares. He asks all of us to cast our cares on Him. He wants you to cast your cares on Him because He wants to carry your burdens. He wants to bring you to a place of healing and restoration.
His Word tells us that He came to bind up the brokenhearted. He is not a God with a big stick – waiting to strike you down for your weakness; but, a God who wants to comfort you and carry you through every storm.
Honestly, it can be very difficult to redirect our thoughts when we fall into deep depression, hopelessness, or self-condemnation. It can be difficult to pull ourselves up enough to even reach out for help. God understands that too; so. He has provided multiple avenues that can lead to help. The important thing is to know that you are not alone. It is not shameful to be in a hard place – almost all of us have been there at one time or another.
Make a call. Let someone know how you are feeling. Your church may be able to direct you to help. At Trinity we have multiple resources. Over a decade ago Pastor Carl recognized the need and commissioned my husband, John, and me to implement programs for healing and restoration at Trinity. We also birthed Walking in Freedom Ministries, dedicated to facilitate this type of ministry throughout the region through retreats, conferences, ministry training and one-on-one sessions. Again, a phone call can connect you.
There is also a national suicide hotline that is open 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255 or text to 741741. Pease reach out! You were created in God’s image for a purpose. Your life is valuable and it is never too late. God is the author of HOPE.
The very least we can do as friends and members of the Body of Christ, is to take the time to listen and share His love and compassion for you. We want to do that. Please, reach out!
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