God in Heaven, I can best describe the tangle of emotions I feel as “painful”. Nearly all the time… sometimes it’s even physical. Lord, it’s often overwhelming and takes me out of life. I know this is NOT Your plan but the enemy’s plan, who steals our joy. Your Word tells me that You are near to the brokenhearted and save those who are crushed in spirit.1 I need Your nearness, I feel burdened and weary, but You invite me to come to You for rest, to lay my burdens at Your feet and take up Your yoke, which is easy and light.2 Please grant rest for my soul.
I know that You are the God who heals the brokenhearted and binds up wounds.3 Even in this pain, I believe You are my comfort. You comfort me in my afflictions so that I may one day comfort others with the same love and compassion You pour out upon me.4
Help me to remember that the suffering I face now cannot compare to the glory You will reveal in my life.5 Even though I walk through the darkest valleys, I will not fear, for You are with me. Your rod and staff comfort and guide me through this shadowy path.6 I cast all my anxieties on You, Lord, knowing that You care for me.7 Even when I don’t understand, I trust in Your plans for my future, plans to give me hope and peace.8 Strengthen me, O God, and uphold me with Your righteous right hand.9
Teach me to rejoice even in my sufferings, knowing that endurance is being built within me. And that endurance will shape my character, which will ultimately lead me to a hope that will never disappoint, because Your love has been poured into my heart through the Holy Spirit.10 Thank You for overcoming the world, for the peace You offer in tribulation. I take heart, knowing that You have already won the victory.11 In Jesus’ name, I pray.