Where Lies Your Place Of Solace?

By Gladys Famoriyo, Christian Post Guest Columnist Monday, March 16, 2009

When our bodies need pampering and revitalizing, we go to health spas. When we face a spiritual issue or need Gods direction, we go on a prayer retreat. But my question to you is where do you go or what do you do when you feel overwhelmed, frustrated, discouraged or wounded?

In our society today, there is a strong emphasis on self-help. That has led to many of us looking to ourselves (or others) to bring about the comfort we need. We get caught up in adopting precarious ways to make ourselves feel better. And so we find ourselves resorting to the likes of food (comfort eating), money (retail therapy, gambling), alcohol, drugs, sex, etc to 'fill the gaps' and block out the inner turmoil we experience. Hence, it is no wonder the same feelings still persist after the effects of our gap-filler wears off. We may even resort to confessing positive affirmations to make ourselves feel better, only to discover that the same feelings come back, sooner or later.

Why? Because, God is the only One who can fill our 'gaps' and bring about long-lasting comfort to our hearts. Only He has the balm that can sooth away the pain we carry. I believe David had the right idea when he said in Psalm 61:2,

"When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I" (NKJ).

David recognised that the answer to the way He was feeling, was in God. Jesus also encouraged those of us who were weary to come to Him and receive rest (Matthew 11: 28-30). These scriptures (and many others) serve as a reminder for us to seek God when we run into trouble, as opposed to looking to the futile arm of flesh. I believe this is so important, especially in the times we live in.

So what can you expect when you run to God? Here's what you can expect:

• According to Isaiah 40: 29-31, you can expect to get power and new strength.

• According to Psalm 94:19 "when doubt and anxiety fills your mind, His comfort will give you renewed hope and cheer."

• According to Hebrews 6: 19, your confidence in God (His abilities, promises and oath) will be like a strong and trustworthy anchor for your soul. This means you won't be tossed to and fro by the challenges of life.

• According to 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, God comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others.

• And much more…

So the next time you feel your soul can do with some pampering and comfort, check yourself into Gods Healing Spa for the Soul. For His treatments and methods are both effective and lasting.