Much-Afraid

 

     Watching our children go through suffering and tough times is heart-wrenching. We continue to want to protect and take away their pain, but we also understand that life comes with both joy and sorrow and God works through all of it

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, for we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. Romans 5:3-5

     When in the midst of crisis, we often lose sight of God. Worry and fear seep in and overwhelm. And God works and weaves His way back in. There is a book called, “Hinds Feet on High Places” by Hannah Hurnard. This beautiful allegory is the story of a girl named Much-Afraid, someone much like you and me.

     Much-Afraid lives in a valley with her relatives, including Envy, Pride, Anger and Fear. Can you relate? One day, she spots a Shepherd walking by the water and sees something trustworthy in His eyes. Following Him becomes challenging as her relatives continue pursuing her and leading her back to the valley., but she longs for the mountaintop she sees in the distance and continues her journey.

     Her companions for the journey are Sorrow and Suffering, something she will not understand until much later. She witnesses the hind (deer) in the distance following a much easier path to the top. Why doesn’t the Shepherd guide her along an easier path? Why are there storms along the way?

     Looking back, I see the value attained and the wisdom learned, often the hard way, through times of great suffering and loss. God uses all of it, every teardrop, every agonized moment, every challenge. Look for the blessings. Watch for the opportunities along the way to share the hope you have in Christ.

Father,

Our companions, sorrow and suffering, give us opportunities to trust You, to follow You, to witness for You and to come through with more character and hope. Keep guiding us and our children through the times we just don’t understand.

In Jesus name,

Amen