«When they walk through the Valley of Weeping, it will become a place of refreshing springs. The autumn rains will clothe it with blessings» (Psalm 84:6, NLT).
D
on’t expect anything from anyone and you’ll avoid being disappointed. Although we might not say it in these exact words, we often live like this: trapped in the false security of cynicism, believing that expecting less from God and from life means being meeker and more humble. However, cynicism is a symptom of a convalescent faith.
According to American author Paul Miller in A Praying Life, cynicism kills hope. But when we are cynical, dreaming feels like nonsense. Taking risks becomes intolerable. Prayer makes no sense; it’s as if we were talking to the wind. Why put ourselves and God within the reach of failure?
It’s true that cynicism numbs the pain of disappointment, but it does so by stealing our ability to feel hope. It’s a slippery slope, almost imperceptibly taking us downhill toward cynicism. We were disappointed and bitter. Then blind optimism that passes itself off as faith is shattered and doubts besiege us: How can God allow this to happen to me? Why hasn’t He answered me yet? Does what happens to me matter to Him? Unless we understand that the Good Shepherd is guiding us even in the valley of weeping and the valley of the shadow of death, the somniferous properties of cynicism will tempt us.
One morning, as I reread the story of the crucifixion, I remembered that Jesus did not accept the vinegar mixed with gall offered to him. This drink numbed the agony of the cross, but it also robbed the prisoner of the ability to think clearly. Understanding this risk, Jesus decided not to drink it. Cynicism is a dangerous, emotional drug that lulls us and numbs us. Yes, it is true that with it, we no longer feel so much pain, but neither do we feel passion or joy. Jesus died and was resurrected to give us a hope that transcends our circumstances. Let’s not waste it!
Lord Jesus, in the days of joy, when I feel the sun on my face and my mouth is filled with laughter and songs, I trust You. On somber days, as I pass through the valley of weeping, I also choose to trust in You. I know I’m not alone.
That’s why I won’t give in to cynicism.
You will turn even my disappointments into a blessed oasis.
Today I choose to believe again, to dream and to trust that
You have a good plan for my life. You are the reason for my hope!
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Take From: Devotional Thoughts for Women 2022
«NO FEARS»
BY: VANEZA PISSUTO
Collaborators: Alexandra Pérez & Angelica Cuate.
