To be hit in the gut physically can knock the wind out of us. Such a blow could also knock us to our knees. However, the same is true when it happens emotionally and that is good reason to be brought to our knees in prayer.
There are times when experiences of life are felt in my gut. Those are moments when I am hit in such a way I have felt physically sick to my stomach. Such is a feeling telling me things are not as they ought to be. Even the prophet Jeremiah — in view of the sinfulness of the nation and where it was leaving the people, as well as the Babylonian siege and exile because of it — seems to describe how he felt it in his gut. We read. . .
“(11) My eyes are spent with weeping; my stomach churns; my bile is poured out to the ground because of the destruction of the daughter of my people, because infants and babies faint in the streets of the city.” (Lamentations 2:11 ESV)
Jeremiah was experiencing the lamentation from deep within himself. His message of warning from God had been ignored while prophets speaking on their own were listened to. Repentance that was needed did not take place and death and destruction and exile were the result. Jeremiah was sick about it. However, in his words, he was turning to God in prayer over the nation’s condition (i.e. Lamentations 2:20-22) and with regard to himself (i.e. Lamentations 3:19-20) with his focus ultimately drawn to the faithfulness of God. (Lamentations 3:21-24)
When we sense things aren’t right — whether with self or others — let us turn to God in prayer. Then, as we repent and strive to redirect the focuses of others, may we trust God’s steadfast love and His mercy in each new day!
Have a great day SEEKING THE RIGHTEOUS REMEDY OF GOD!
Carl
