Questions
Questions of the Heart
With so much noise going on these days, it is not hard to understand why many of us are struggling. Many desperately need direction. Inner questions of the heart and uncertainty in our lives can take a toll on even the most resilient soul.
In 2 Corinthians 7:5–6 Paul says,
“For even when we came to Macedonia our flesh had no rest, but we were afflicted on every side: conflicts without, fears within. But God, who comforts the depressed, comforted us by the coming of Titus.”
Questions of Trust
Paul’s transparency about the hardships he is going through is radically transparent and may seem out of the ordinary in a time when isolation seems normal. Now, you might ask why is this important? Because we need to be known and loved. We were created this way.
Understand, there may be some barriers to seeking help such as shame and fear. Often, we need someone else’s guidance to discover and unpack the mess in our minds and hearts. There are numerous ways we try to numb the pain or escape. There are clues that we need to pay attention to that may be signs of hiding. Some of these clues include isolation, lack of sleep, overwhelming anxiety, addictions (including food and media), and the list goes on. Doing these things will only mask the problem, and might hide the problem temporarily, but the issue will manifest itself in other ways. So, is there a safe place to go with our problems?
An Odd Question
There is a fascinating story in Scripture. Let me set the stage for you. Jesus walks to Bethesda, a famous pool where many who were sick sat around waiting for the moving of the waters, hoping for a miracle. As Jesus approaches, he sees this man who had been sick for 38 years, who could not walk or help himself into the pool. And Jesus asks this hurting man an odd question.
6 When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he had already been a long time in that condition, He said to him, “Do you wish to get well?”
Jesus knows there cannot be change in us unless we desire change. So, he honors this man by asking this question.
A Personal Question: Do YOU wish to get well?
Admitting we need help is a crucial first step. This is part of the process of being honest. Remember, it is almost impossible to grow without owning what is going on. This is incredibly difficult because of the cultural pressure to simply put our heads down and pretend that everything is fine. Scripturally, to seek out help is courageous. A classic passage that shows the acknowledgement of weakness is 2 Corinthians 12:7-10.
9 And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.
Remember, it takes time to get well and make traction. So, think about fear and depression. Both are realities that people, including Christ followers, face. Paul describes some of the real challenges he faced, both emotionally and physically. He also lets us see how important other people are in his life journey, helping him overcome many obstacles. In the phrase but God in 2 Corinthians 7:6 we see the whole story of life turn around. In this passage God used Titus to bring encouragement.
Application
Even now, you may be facing challenges that seem impossible. But keep in mind that in and through Christ all things are possible. I encourage you to seek out a biblical counselor, coach, or mentor who can help you navigate and process your journey. We are not meant to do this journey alone. If you can, take a look at Luke 1 and notice the obstacles, the impossibilities. And lodged in this chapter is the glorious verse 37, “For nothing will be impossible with God.” Hope is found in the God who BRINGS comfort and hope, not in my ability to fix or figure out my mess!