Have you ever noticed the noise and disruption that accompanies fear and anxiety?
When faced with fear or anxiety, symptoms like a loud ringing in the ears as blood pressure rises or a pounding feeling in the chest as the heart races is common. Often, this culminates in a nauseating
headache, digestive discomfort or difficulty breathing. Others experience senses so heightened that everything feels too loud, too bright, too busy. It can feel hard to focus. A feeling of being numb physically, mentally or emotionally takes hold. These debilitating feelings drive many to seek out a place where they can hide until they can cope and make sense of what has led them to this point.
Elijah knew the overwhelming feeling of fear and anxiety. Queen Jezebel, who was the patron of the prophets of Baal, had threatened to kill him for obediently following God’s instructions instead of those of these false prophets.
What was worse was that Elijah’s own people had turned their backs on him and sided with Jezebel. Running for his life, he finally took refuge in a dark, quiet, safe cave. Perhaps Elijah collapsed into a restless sleep. No doubt he felt very alone. When the time was right, God came to Elijah and asked, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”. Of course, God knew the circumstances that had led to Elijah being there, but God was giving Elijah the opportunity to talk about what was going on within
himself.
When someone struggles with fear and anxiety, it is important to give them space, without judgement, to work through their thoughts and
feelings. This takes time and energy and should not be rushed. Overwhelming someone with our persistent presence is not helpful, but neither is leaving them alone for too long. Prayerful discernment is required to know how and when to support someone in this dark and painful place. God did not rush in on Elijah but gave him the time and understanding he needed. God then very gently invited him to share as much or as little of the story as he wished. Being quietly present for an appropriate
length of time can be a tremendously healing gift to someone. This is not the time to impose all your ‘wisdom’ on how to get out of or escape this time. Gentleness, patience and protection of dignity are as great a gift as a loving, listening ear.
Are you aware of someone who may be in a dark or painful place in their life?
Would you like to reach out in love to them and may not be sure how to go
about it?
Ask God for the wisdom to know when to reach out and for the right words to use, allowing them to be comfortable sharing what they want to share. Your loving listening presence may be just what they need.
Perhaps you are the person struggling with fear, pain or anxiety.
Can you hear the Lord inviting you to speak with God about where you are?
Is
God perhaps encouraging you to speak with someone who can appropriately accompany you through this time? Wherever you find yourself in such an encounter, you are not alone. God’s wisdom and love are always there beside you.
Reflections by Cherie-Lynn van der Merwe
