Nighttime. Why is it so hard? “Things” seem to grow in the blackness of the night---at least at my house. I just want to close my mind to the thoughts---fly away from the problems, which believe it or not, is the way the psalmist, David, felt.
Psa. 55:4-8My insides are turned inside out; specters of death have me down.I shake with fear, I shudder from head to foot."Who will give me wings," I ask—"wings like a dove?"Get me out of here on dove wings; I want some peace and quiet.I want a walk in the country, I want a cabin in the woods.I'm desperate for a change, from rage and stormy weather. (The Message)
Night Noises, a picture book, by Australian author, Mem Fox, tells of Lily Laceby, an old woman whose bones were as creaky as floorboards at midnight. Noises do tend to intensify in the night----just like my thoughts. Anxieties, insecurities, hurts. All those fears seem to gain strength in the night. They become a like a “roaring lion” waiting to devour---the teeth of the enemy waiting to “eat” me alive.
I know the scripture, “When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Thy consolations delight my soul.” (Psalm 94:19) Yet, my roaring thoughts were drowning out meditation and robbing me of my rest---good news (exciting), bad news (heartbreaking), Michelè’s MRI, revolt in Libya, Afghan women. My night noises of anxiety/pain know no geographical limits.
Fox’s Night Noises heralded a surprising awakening. My awakening was fatigue----no surprise there. But God…….”the One who gives songs in the night” (Job 35:10) sent afternoon mail that brought a scripture reminder.
We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts (2 Peter 1:19)
I think I’ll take this verse to bed with me tonight to ward off my “scary” night noises.
