Scripture for Memory and Mediation #12

Psalm 62:8 NIV
"Trust in Him at all times, O people;
pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge."

There are times in our lives when we are surrounded by a great host of friends and family. Some of those are so precious and allow us the latitude in friendship to pour out our hearts to them. There are times that that's what we need because it's like a relief valve and the stresses, pain, and pressures are released in being able to share our heart with someone who cares.

Other times we are alone or at least it seems that way. In these times, the stresses, pain, and pressures expand within us so much that we think we are going to burst for lack of being able to release them.

As children of God and Christ followers we know that He is there and cherishes His children pouring out our hearts to Him so that He may pour out His heart to us. But often, we forget that because we need or want someone in the flesh to help us through.

When God had me "stumble" onto this Word, I stood back and spiritually shook my head at myself. He invites us to pour out of our hearts to Him. He is the ultimate friend and listener and really He is THE ONE WITH THE ANSWERS; He is our refuge. I'm just now reminded of the old hymn "What a Friend We Have in Jesus". I am a great lover of Contemporary Christian music and also Praise and Worship music, but having grown up in church the lyrics of the foundational hymns seem to always come to mind to remind me of the truths I've know all my life.

What a Friend We Have in Jesus

Lyrics: Joseph M. Scriven

"What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear, all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.

Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer. Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share? Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care? Precious Savior, still our refuge; take it to the Lord in prayer. Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer! In his arms he'll take and shield thee; thou wilt find a solace there."

Excuse me now, I think Jesus and I have an overdue appointment.