A Theology of Prayer - Struggles in Prayer

Study 73

Text: Psalm 22

STRUGGLES WITH FEELINGS

One of the most vulnerable parts that will be hit upon, when we seek to enter into spiritual battle would be our "feelings." Our emotions are very difficult to master! Sometimes, our feelings can be very overwhelming. This was what the psalmist David experienced.

"But I am a worm and no man;
A reproach of men, and despised by the people.
All those who see Me ridicule Me;
They shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying,
'He trusted in the LORD, let Him rescue Him;
Let Him deliver him, since He delights in Him."
Psalm 22:6-8

1. Danger of "Comparison"

Feelings affect our thought-processes! Emotions that are in turmoil can cause us to make comparisons that make us feel even worse!
Yes, the psalmist confesses that his forefathers trusted the Lord and they were helped! But surely he could not compare himself with the ancients? He felt that he was "but a worm and no man!"

2. Danger of dwelling on "the negatives"

Feelings can be very deeply hurt! This is especially so when the mind dwells on the things that cause hurt.

a) Reproaches
When hurtful words are hurled at us, they bring hurt! Sometimes, we allow the hurt to go deeper than necessary!

b) Despising
Despising is almost an art with reference to the wicked. They know how to despise people in such a way that they cause deep pain.

c) Ridicule
This is another weapon that brings great grief to the feelings! Ridicule can be quite destructive!

d) Taunts
Enemies will stop at nothing to gain victory! They can even use "spiritual words" to bring hurt! They will undermine our trust in God if they were given half the chance!

TURNING ALL OUR SORROWS TO THE LORD IN PRAYER

Obviously, we need to become far stronger emotionally, or we would be swept away by the tide of hurt emotions! The challenge is to take all our grief to the Lord in prayer! Bring every single hurt to the Lord in prayer! This was exactly what the psalmist did! He found the strength to press on because he persevered in prayer!

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~