I often hear the phrase “Keep the Faith” but it hasn’t been that easy for me because I’ve had several things happen that have literally shaken my faith. First, my father had a heart attack and died. He was only 65 with no previous history of heart problems. Then, my husband was in a serious car accident that prevented him from working for six months. The “proverbial straw” that shook me to the core was when our daughter was diagnosed with leukemia. I have to say I’m grateful for the help we’ve received along the way, but inside I’m really angry. My prayer is to return to a faith filled life. What can I do to restore my faith? – Feeling Helpless

Dear Feeling Helpless ~

My heart goes out to you and the grief you must be feeling and on so many levels. I’m not sure I wouldn’t be similarly challenged with shaken faith. The unfortunate truth is that most people don’t know how to respond to the grief of a friend or loved one, much less where to lend support. I’m glad that you’ve felt support along the way, but my guess is that you’re feeling pretty alone in this, trying to make sense of the feelings and emotions that are bombarding your mind and heart. There really aren’t any rules either. By that I mean, we’re not adequately prepared for the grieving process and all the many conflicting mental ‘hoops’ we try to jump through. Grief can revolve around anything from death to a job loss or divorce or severe illness, several of which you have experienced in what sounds like a short period of time. Here are a few thoughts I can offer you about the process.

Ecclesiastes 3 helps us understand that, “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven” (NKJV v.1). The text goes on to talk about how God has “made everything beautiful in its time” (NKJV v. 11a), which gives us a broader perspective, a divine viewpoint, if you will, of timing that is otherworldly in the reality of the Omnipresent One. Our understanding of the heavenly perspective is limited by our own humanness, handicapping our ability to separate ourselves and our pain and anger from the larger truth that nothing escapes the Father. I won’t presume to suggest how you should or shouldn’t feel, only that you have a right to experience the fullness of the emotion and be present with the reality of your losses.

When you feel angry, express that anger to the Lord and allow Him to minister to your heart. Practically speaking, it’s healthy to look for ways to walk out the pain and anger. Perhaps you can begin a mindfulness practice or a breathing meditation of Scripture. Writing is often a great way to release the angst we feel inside and can take the form of storytelling through a narrative of events, poetry writing, or journaling. Physical activities are also beneficial, as they temporarily distract us while providing much-needed endorphins that help soothe and calm us. The same can be said for adjusting our diet to more wholesome healing food choices.

When we begin to take better care of our overall wellness needs, we create a space for God to enter and minister to our hurting hearts and spirits. We are encouraged to invite Him to help us make sense of it all. He has created us to be both malleable and steadfast. Flexible in the ways we accept His love and guidance.

“Hear my prayer, O Lord, Give ear to my supplications! In Your faithfulness answer me, and in Your righteousness.” Psalm 143:1 (NKJV)

Unwavering in the knowledge that He remains at our side during the storms of life.

“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” James 1:2-4 (NKJV)

Above all, please don’t give up on yourself or God. He loves you and will continue to love you through all your storms. James 4:1 reminds us to, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” Be open to the possibilities of healing and the renewing of your faith. Merely open your heart to the sincere desire of the Father to have you rest in His love.

Praying for your healing to be swift and complete, for your daughter’s and your husband’s recovery, and that you will have divine encounters to strengthen your faith!

Be Well & Be Blessed!
Lucinda