Where do you run to?

Drowning. Despair, Suffocation. Ever feel it? Sense it? Deep down within your every pore, every fiber of your being? Like you cannot go on down this path another day, hour, or minute?

I have.  And it’s not a comfortable position. Circumstances overwhelm. For me, it doesn’t even have to be my own circumstances. They can be family or friend’s seemingly unfair circumstance.

For example: Stage 4 cancer. Yesterday I learned a dear cousin discovered she’s now (already) in Stage 4 cancer. Do I dare whisper the words, “It’s not fair?” I know in my head that His thoughts are not my thoughts and His ways are not my ways.

Right now, life feels like one too many straws stacked up on this ole’ camel’s back. I might topple over unless I escape. Run, run away from it all—at least temporarily. I am at a point where I cannot see straight, breathe, or focus on one more issue. And so I pack my bags with the essentials, grab my car keys and drive away.

I retreated to the lake where the water spoke peace and calmness. Not verbally, but in my spirit. Rejuvenating springs of living water. Refreshment came as I poured my woes, disappointments, and yes my doubts, out to the One who created flowing waters of contentment. I run to my strong tower and run into it. My safe refuge–straight into His arms of compassion. He knows all. He cares if my soul is upset beyond words. Softly, I hear “This too shall pass. Another day will come tomorrow and today won’t look so bleak.” Not audibly, but yet I feel comfort and reassurance.

The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. Proverbs 18:10 (NIV)

God sees the big picture. I see only a teeny-tiny peephole of this timeline called life. If God were to open the whole lens, my eyes would be blinded. I could not handle the entire picture. He allows only a snippet for my own self preservation, not to withhold information or punish me.

I love these words to one of my favorite songs, “Our God is an awesome God.”

Our God(our God) is an awesome God
He reigns(He reigns) from heaven above
With wisdom(with wisdom) pow’r and love
our God is an awesome God

Just wondering, where is your quiet place? your solace? Where do you find solitude, peace, rest? I’d love to hear from you.