Distraction

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Jeremiah 17:14 “Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.”

‍Think

Our human experience is intricately woven with five senses: sight, smell, touch, taste, and sound. Interestingly, most people tend to process one sensation at a time. It's akin to how, when dealing with an insect bite, applying ice can temporarily numb the pain, shifting your focus from the itch or sting to the sensation of cold.

In the depths of our struggles, it’s natural to focus on our pain. But praising God can become a healing balm for our wounded souls. It's a profound shift, a turning point when facing hurts in our lives. The natural inclination for many of us isn't to turn to worship when faced with life's pains. Instead, we may seek refuge in substances, social media, or the company of others—anything to divert our attention and fixate on something other than the pain. However, the inherent flaw in these distractions is that they offer temporary relief and fail to address the core issues. Only Jesus holds the power to truly help and heal the wounds that afflict us.

When life hits us with its sharpest pains, and distractions prove futile, turning to praise becomes a transformative choice. It's an acknowledgment that our deepest hurts find solace in the presence and power of God. In those moments, our praises become a symphony of healing, echoing through the corridors of our souls. For, in the act of worship, we surrender our burdens, placing them in the hands of the One who can genuinely mend and restore.

Embracing the discipline of praising God in the midst of pain brings a transformative shift in perspective. It anchors our souls in the unchanging character of God, fostering resilience and hope even in the most challenging seasons of life.

Apply

Develop a habit of acknowledging and giving thanks for God's goodness, even in challenging circumstances (Psalm 107:1). Engage in corporate worship at your local church as well as participating in personal worship. A grateful heart becomes fertile ground for turning pain into praise.

Pray

Jesus, give us the strength to turn our pain into praise. Help us to cultivate hearts of gratitude, finding reasons to thank you even in the midst of difficulty. In our moments of weakness and hurt, remind us of the promises found in your Word. In Jesus' name. Amen.