Recently, I have found myself in a stage of life where I can be quickly overwhelmed. Either I have one too many things I have to get done, or the circumstances around me are challenging my character and trust in the Lord. Feeling overwhelmed, or rather, helpless and out of control, left me with a question. Can I be overwhelmed with my circumstances and still be trusting in the Lord? Is it a sin like worrying? Reading through the Psalms, I found my answer. There are many times where David or the psalmist is overwhelmed and trusting in the Lord!
“How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day?.... But I trust in your unfailing love. I will rejoice because you have rescued me. I will sing to the Lord because he is good to me.” Psalm 13 (NLT)
David’s lament is to the Lord as he remembers God’s faithfulness and steadfast love. In times where we can’t control our circumstances and start to feel overwhelmed, we have a loving God to cry out to. It’s in these times of desperation that God works in us, building our faith and trust in him.
“ Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” James 1:2-3 (ESV)
So whenever I am faced with a trial and get to a point where it feels too much, I have a choice. I can either dwell on my circumstances, throwing myself a grand pity party, or I can go before the Lord and cry out to him. Surrendering all, I can throw my hands up and rest in God’s sovereignty.
Be overwhelmed before the Lord! Seek out encouragement through his Word and by singing his praises! It may not change your situation but it will change your heart.
~~ Leslie Hoyle