I've recently been feeling what just this morning I identified as being, "soul weary". And from what I've been seeing on social media, many of you have been feeling the same too.
What helped me identify it was while awakening this morning, and trying to center my thoughts and heart toward Christ, I had this faint thought that finally formed into, "Oh soul are you weary?" It reminded me of King David and some of the Psalms he wrote while trying to shake off despair. But it didn't seem to be where the thought was coming from.
It then started to take shape as a line from a long forgotten hymn I remember singing as a child with the rest of the people in our small church. I strained to remember more words but couldn't, then realized I could "hear" pieces of the tune. I then decided to follow its smatterings until I reached the chorus, and then the words came flooding back.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in his wonderful face.
And the things of earth
Will grow strangely dim,
In the light of his glory and grace.
For the first time I can see it's the recipe of the antidote for soul weariness ... long planted in my heart while still a child. God knew it was there long-buried but still intact. And knew too how to help me push aside the sands of time so I could rediscover it.
By this time I also remembered the title of the hymn, so I looked up the lyrics. I wasn't too surprised to find its two verses, especially with the chorus, hold a wonderful message for us as well.
O soul are you weary and troubled, no light in the darkness you see. There's light for a look at the Savior, and life more abundant and free. Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in his wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of his glory and grace. His Word will not fail you, he promised. Believe him and all will be well. Then go to a world that is dying, his perfect salvation to tell.
What an amazing God we serve ... and what a wonderful reminder that He is still there shining in the darkness. I just need to remember not to allow myself to get distracted by what's happening in the darkness so I can stay focused on Him ... the one who never changes ... the rock that keeps me stable!
How about you? Do you feel the same too?