We all need something or someone greater than ourselves to strengthen us when life becomes difficult. Sometimes we suffer through whole seasons full of nothing but pain and anxiety. It is like standing in the middle of a desert, surrounded by dirt, dirt, and more dirt.
     I think when we go through difficult times, we search for peace of mind, direction, a way to reduce stress. Not all “desert experiences” need answers. Sometimes it is just a matter of taking to heart Eugene Peterson’s book title, “A Long Obedience in the Same Direction.” Somehow, some way, we must put one foot ahead of the other and get through the day, and the next day, and the day after that. To do that, we need to tap into a power source that feeds our spirit.
     Some find peace communing with nature. A long walk in the woods does wonders for the body and soul. A friend or confidant is a blessing through difficult times. Some people find strength in support groups. I find that quilting takes my mind off my woes and gives me an almost meditative peace. But for the strongest power source, I turn to God.
     However, at times I feel something blocks his power. I’m reminded of the orthodox Jew who was davening (praying) before the temple wall in Jerusalem. “How does that feel? Does that work?’ someone asked him. The man sighed and responded, “It’s like talking to a wall.”
     Does God hear us? Does he answer our cries for help? How will I know if a solution is from God? Does God guide me to the correct solution? The Bible tells us we can trust him.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And do not rely on your own insight.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
And he will make straight your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6 ASV)

I question if I trust God enough. How many times have I handed him a problem, only to take it back in the next minute as I continue to fret? Finally, tired of my whining, I decided to trust God fully, no matter what is crashing around me. He is sovereign, and I’m learning to get on board with whatever his plans are for me. That will be my power source. So, I begin each day praising God, meditating on some Bible verses, and telling him what is on my heart. That gets me centered, or “off on the right foot.”
     There is a Bible verse that says,

“Be still, and know that I am God!
I am exalted among the nations,
I am exalted in the earth.” (Psalm 46:10 ASV)

     I can hear a skeptic say, “Fine for you believers. There are other ways to tap into power. For example, aerobic exercise releases feel-good endorphins, promotes restful sleep, while it strengthens the heart. Meditation lowers blood pressure, clears the mind. People use Tai Chi and Yoga.”
     I agree with you, my friend. These practices do help us reach our inner power. A neuroscientist/minister at a seminar I attended talked about an experiment done with nuns. Since nuns were used to meditation, they studied their brains before and after meditation. To no one’s surprise, meditation, changed their brains’ matrix. “See, that proves there is a God,” exclaimed Mother Superior upon hearing the results of the test. After publication, an atheist said, “That proves it’s only biological.”
     Yes, biologically and spiritually we do respond to all of the above. I think God created these pathways to enable us to tap into well-springs of power common to all humans. They will work for the monk or the atheist. I do believe, however, that we experience greater strength and wisdom to deal with life when we use these pathways to reach for an all-powerful God and ask for his grace.
     Believer or non-believer, I think it is vital we turn daily to whatever or whomever constitutes our power source. Otherwise, something else will run our lives.

Copyright 2020
Susan LeDoux is a freelance Christian writer and reporter. She writes for a Christian magazine in New York State, "The Good News", for various ministries and her church. You can follow her blogs about faith, health, caregiving, and writing at her website, www.susanledoux.com