It was bleak up there in the hills in the middle of winter but looking for inspiration I had deliberately gone out to be in the elements.
Battling against the icy wind up on the high ground I saw a gate. Lonely and sad looking it was, doing the job of keeping the cattle in. But as I walked towards it I heard the most incredible thing – it was ’singing’. The wind was blowing through the tubes and producing two melancholic notes of great beauty; a sad song. I stood there, listening; the two notes were enough, but as I turned away, leaving the gate to its lament, it ’rose to a different level’, and with great effort produced a much higher clearer note; astonishing.
This gate was beautiful. It was in its place, ’doing’ what it was purposed for. Alone yes, but singing, rejoicing, and being positive. This pleased me.
Psalm 32:11 Rejoice in the Lord and be glad, you righteous; sing, all you who are upright in heart!
Whenever I am tempted to feel lonely and lament in my sorry state I remind myself to do as King David did and rouse my soul to sing. I sing praises to God for who He is; for His love and faithfulness. The truth is that like the gate we might feel alone but we too are placed for purpose. And in that we can rejoice.
I might add that the season of feeling alone has ended for me. I believe we are not meant to stand in isolation but that God will provide for our needs. In this season I was forced to push into seeking God at a greater depth of intimacy. It enabled me to learn about trust and faith. For this I am thankful.
I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done. I will be filled with joy because of you. I will sing praises to your name, O Most High.
Psalm 9:1-2
So lift your heart to praise God in your situation and be encouraged.