Banish all negative thoughts
There are things that happen in the lives of many against which they want to cry out; fixed undesirable things with inevitable consequences, things which they cannot fix or from which escape. Examples are:
When a parent realizes their child is not what might be considered normal and never will. Many adjust and respond in a most constructive manner, but that initial moment when the limitation is realizes has to be an “Oh, no” moment. A curtain of consternation drops and certain thoughts and emotions emerge behind it, never to be openly acknowledged.
When a person realizes that as a result of accumulated birthdays the infirmities of aging impose their limitations the curtain of consternation drops. A positive response frequently results, but behind the curtain a number of “No, not me” thoughts are wrestled with.
When persons realizes they have a physical problem that has been diagnosed with an ultimate nega- tive result the curtain of consternation drops. Rail against it as one may, the physical problem and its end are inevitable. A warrior’s mentality is often expressed in a desire to oppose it, but inexpressible fears and anxieties exist behind the curtain.
It is difficult to know what struggle is going on behind the curtain of consternation of others. It is practical to realize there are such struggles persons never mention.
Ruminating deep in the catacombs of the human mind are often dark thoughts, dark only in that have not been exposed to the light of public expression. They may not be evil, just negative, suppressive, fearful, or troubling.
All persons have secret thoughts. Some realize it and work to control them. Others are controlled by them. Even the Apostle Paul had such inner strife — and won over it.
What is one to do? First, make certain what the reality is. Do you have a definitive understanding of various aspects of the situation?
Don’t be delusional. As difficult as it is to face reality, don’t deny it or try to hide from it. If possible find a mature spiritual confidant with whom you can talk through issues. Don’t necessarily expect an instant resolution. However, you will be gratified just in know- ing someone knows, is empathetic, and supportive.
Don’t be repressive. Repression can lead to depression. Perhaps your shadowy thoughts are of such a nature and so out of character you feel you can’t express them. Persons of faith have an advantage at this point. In addition to being a supernatural, interchange prayer is also therapeutic for the one praying. In addressing God, candor is always basic. You aren’t going to shock God, so be open with Him. “Take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ” (II Cor. 10: 5).
Even if God has not been the matrix of your life, now is a perfect time to allow Him into the equation of your life. Know things aren’t always good, but God is always good. Don’t confuse the two. Fire is always hot, water is always wet, and God is always good. Neither can be any other way. He has not promised any of us exemption from problems or immunity to difficulty, but He has promised to be with us and strengthen us.
God lives and works on both side of the curtain of consternation. Don’t keep Him off stage. Allow Him to be an active actor in your life’s drama. Better still, let Him be the director.
Even when hope isn’t present He is.