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| Image Credit: Gospel images – miracles of Jesus (selected passages from Matthew 8; Mark 1, 5, 6; Luke 5, 8, 13; John 5) by Jan van ’t Hoff – Gospel Images, courtesy of FreeBibleimages.org. |
There are seasons in our walk when God may feel far, though He has not moved. The heart longs for nearness, but the silence can become heavy. In such moments, we may find ourselves reaching—perhaps not openly, but quietly and often instinctively. It is in those times that certain comforts begin to appear as safe, even though they might not truly lead us to rest.
Some of us may turn to emotional escapes. Screens and stories can seem more welcoming than prayer. We scroll without aim, hoping to feel lighter, though deep inside we remain restless. Others might lean toward keeping things in order. When we feel distant from God, we may try to manage outcomes, people, or routines, believing that a sense of control might ease the weight we carry. There are also times when we embrace a kind of spirituality that speaks gently but never leads us back to the cross. It may promise calm, but leaves us unchanged.
These may not appear harmful at first. In fact, some of them might even seem wise. But over time, they begin to take the place that belongs only to Christ. Social media may keep us company, but it cannot comfort the soul. Structure might give relief, but not renewal. Language that excludes repentance or grace cannot bring life. As the Lord once said through the prophet, “They have hewn themselves cisterns—broken cisterns that can hold no water” (Jer 2:13).
Looking back, there were moments when I, too, leaned toward these things. I did not always realize it then. I told myself I was coping wisely. But beneath that, I was longing for a Word I had not opened, a nearness I had not sought in prayer. The Lord was merciful to draw me back.
If we find ourselves depending on these comforts today, the way forward is not to pretend we are stronger than we are. It is not to scold ourselves. The invitation is to return. Christ welcomes those who come again. He never grew tired of the women who reached out for Him, whether they came with shame, or silence, or tears. The Lord is near to all who call upon Him in truth (Ps 145:18). We may not feel strong. We may not know what to say. But He sees the heart that turns.
Let us return—not merely to feel better, but to behold Him again. Let us open His Word even when it feels unfamiliar. Let us speak to Him even when our thoughts are slow. The world offers many ways to escape. But only one Shepherd gives rest.
And He still calls.
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