Triumph, success, and stories of greatness do not always inspire me. Stories of failures, flawed people, and falling from grace move me. It is those stories that I can most closely relate. It’s easy to see why David is one of my favorite people to discuss. He was a complex person. There was a light, gifted, and inspiring side of him. He was a talented musician, wrote beautiful words of expression, and cared for his animals so deeply it’s often used as a metaphor for God’s love for us. There was a dark, selfish, and manipulative side of him as well. The evidence is seen in his actions when he had an affair with a married woman, murdered her husband, and ignored the voice of God. His highlights and falls are usually the focus, but his early years fascinate me the most. In his youth, he spent alot of time alone with God in nature.
We resent isolation, avoid alone time, and fear loneliness. It’s in these times, in the quiet, that we can hear ourselves think and focus on the voice of God.
Think back on seasons of isolation, loneliness, and solitude. Hindsight 20/20. When looking back, we have a clearer view of our actions and mindset. I will not claim to understand the exact reasons I endured hard times or had struggles. What I do see is God’s guidance, personal growth, and a transformation in my perspective of my identity and purpose.
LOOK UP. The next time you are alone or surrounded by people you only tolerate to avoid being alone, look up. The next time you find yourself scrolling through social media or seeking validation from others to fill a void, look up. Ask yourself some deep questions: Why am I alone? Why do I fear it? Is God trying to use this to grow me or change me? Do I truly know myself? Am I confident in my identity? What is my purpose? Self-reflection and solitude are necessary to find these answers. First, you have to LOOK UP.
I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.
David, Psalm 121:1
David wrote, “Lead me beside the still waters….” STILL WATERS.
- When we are still, we can hear without distractions.
- Still water allow us clear reflection. We see our true self in the reflection of still water.
- When we are still, we can feel winds of change as God moves around us and through us.
David was able to overcome grief, self-hate, toxic relationships, self-destructive behaviors, and family dysfunction.
He knew the value of solitude. It was in this solitude that he wrote in all seasons of his life. His words were beautiful and sad, reflecting the tragedy, loss, and joy he experienced in life.
- Lessons from his life:
- Redemption is possible no matter how far you fall.
- Solitude and isolation draw us closer to God.
- Music, writing, and journaling can be tools for worship and a way to express our deepest emotions.
One sees great things from the valley; only small things from the peak.
Gilbert K. Chesterton
Console the Soul 