[The Mayor]

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August 5, 2008

Spiritual Therapy

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READ: Psalm 88

Lord, why do You cast off my soul? Why do You hide Your face from me? —Psalm 88:14

I once wrote a book titled Disappointment With God. My publishers worried that it seemed heretical to introduce a book with such a title into Christian bookstores. In the process of writing it, however, I found that the Bible includes detailed accounts of people sorely disappointed with God. Job and Moses had it out with God, as did Habakkuk, Jeremiah, and many of the unnamed psalmists.

It seems strange for sacred writings to include scenes of spiritual failure, but this reflects an important principle. A marriage therapist will warn couples, “Your relationship may get worse before it gets better.” Misunderstandings must be exposed before true understanding can flourish. The psalmists do not rationalize anger or give abstract advice about pain; rather, they express emotions vividly and loudly, directing their feelings primarily at God. The anguished conclusion of Psalm 88 provides ample evidence (vv.13-18).

The psalms present a mosaic of spiritual therapy in process. Doubt, paranoia, giddiness, delight, hatred, joy, praise, vengefulness, betrayal—you find it all in the psalms. From them I learn to bring to God whatever I feel about Him. I need not paper over my failures; far better to bring my weaknesses to Him, who alone has the power to heal.

Do you fear the gathering clouds of sorrow?
Tell it to Jesus, tell it to Jesus;
Are you anxious what shall be tomorrow?
Tell it to Jesus alone. —Rankin

An honest talk with God is the first step in finding peace of mind.

Bible in One Year: Job 13–15; Proverbs 13:1-12

[SandRat]

Come on Through

An Iraqi Police officer guides an ecstatic woman and her children through security toward the Al Manasir School in Karnabaht, a neighborhood in the Abu Ghraib District of Baghdad, to receive medical treatment for her children during a Cooperative Medical Engagement, July 29, 2008. Photo by Sgt. Whitney Houston, Multi-National Division Baghdad.

[laurenmarlowe]

Happy Birthday Mayor!!

[mylife]

[Mrs.Nooseman]

Good evening Mayor.Thank you for your daily lessons.

[Mrs.Nooseman]

Wishing you a very........

The Mayor!!!!

May all your wishes come true.

[MeekMom]

[TASMANIANRED]

Evening, Russ.

Thanks for today’s inspirational words.

[NYTexan]

Happy Birthday Russ!

Wish I had time to stop and say goodbye before I left NY.

But Happy ta be back in Texas!!!

[Kathy in Alaska]

Good morning, Mayor, and thank you for today’s sustenance for body and soul.