I am like an owl in the desert,
like a little owl in a far-off wilderness.
I lie awake,
lonely as a solitary bird on the roof. Psalm 102: 6-7 NLT
Psalm 102 is described as ‘a prayer of one overwhelmed with trouble, pouring out problems before the Lord.’ The notes in my study Bible talk about the birds in this passage being lonely and desolate. Yes, there are times when we may need or want to be alone, and solitude may comfort us. However, don’t reject help and conversation. Suffering silently is neither Christian nor particularly healthy. Instead, accept graciously the support and help from family and friends.
I am part of a men’s group that meets on Thursday mornings. This group has been a lifeline for me more times than I can count. We laugh, we share stories, sometimes there are tears and occasionally we will even open our Bibles to talk about a passage. The important thing is that each member of the group feels better when we can participate with and support each other. I will do everything in my power to make it to these meetings, only missing when I must be out of town or attending a specific family event. There are times when I am a ‘giver’ and there are more frequent occasions when I am a ‘taker.’ Critically though, we are being the church for each other. Another wise friend explained to me long ago that even when I don’t feel like going or don’t feel like I am getting something from the meeting it isn’t just about me. My participation might be an encouragement to someone else who needs to hear what I have to say.
Questions for reflection:
- Where are you suffering silently right now? Where has an acquaintance offered to listen or help and have you taken them up on this offer?
- Where have you offered your support recently and how was it received? Who is someone you have recently encountered who might need your support even if it is just a listening ear or anonymous prayer?