God's Peace In Times Of Sorrow

During those days, it was deemed inappropriate for anyone to enter the king’s presence with any signs of sorrow (Est 4:2), and Nehemiah was aware of this (v. 1). It was no wonder that king Artaxerxes noticed his cupbearer’s sad countenance, and concluded that it “is nothing else but sorrow of heart!” Prior to their meeting, Nehemiah already spent several days praying and fasting before the Lord (Neh 1:4), because he heard about the great affliction of the remnants that returned to Jerusalem and how the “wall of Jerusalem also is broken down” (Neh 1:3). After letting the king know the reason for his sadness (v. 3), he prayed again before making his request (v. 4).

We must always remember to pray and seek the Lord’s guidance and direction “according to His will” (1 Jn 5:14). In times of sorrow, we need to ask for wisdom (Jm 1:5), so we can say the right words. Nehemiah was grieving over the condition of Jerusalem. He knew the importance of prayer and trusting the Lord in everything (Prov 3:5), before making any major decisions! When we get emotionally hurt because of a loss or some kind of discouraging incident, it can potentially lead to depression. However, we must also realize that God allows sorrow in our lives for a reason (Rom 8:28). It can serve as a pathway to healing (Ps 6:2), and transformation through spiritual growth (Col 1:10).

 We don’t like it and hope that they did not exist. But those times of grief actually causes us to reflect upon a better understanding of ourselves and our relationship with God (2 Cor 7:10). His promises are always true; when we have suffered a while, He shall make us perfect, stablished, strengthened, and settled (1 Pet 5:10). Our Lord Jesus loves us deeply and meets us in our pain. He provides us with comfort and healing, because “He is our peace” (Eph 2:14)! God bless you!

- Pastor Melito Barrera