Self-pity is a bottomless, viscous pit. Once you fall into it, you tend to sink deeper and deeper. It’s a path to depression, and the darkness is profound. This is a snapshot of my grieving process.
In my own experience in the abyss, as I looked up, I could see the light of His presence shining. I now understand that it was shining on me. But from my distorted perspective, I saw that He didn’t care at all.
The Lord reached out to me through the tenderness of my ex-husband. And I emerged from the abyss of despair. The Lord gently cleansed me, washing me from the mud that clung to me. The psalmist masterfully describes my experience.
“He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.” (Psalms 40:2-3 NIV).
Then I am equipped and well armed to summon my soul:
“Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him for the help of His presence.” (Psalms 42:5 MEV).
Because I know this:
“the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.” (Psalms 147:11 NIV).
This is my Story! What’s Yours?