Even a Sigh

Until my battle with cancer I never understood the difference between being tired and being fatigued. When I was tired an inner push still allowed me to accomplish certain tasks. But when I was fatigued, I could push no more. I felt lower than a pothole. Sometimes I had no energy to eat, let alone take a shower.

One morning I was so exhausted all I could do was sigh. Then in my devotions I discovered Psalm 38:9 (NRSV): ‘O Lord, all my longing is known to you; my sighing is not hidden from you.’ What a boost I felt in my spirit! God understood my deepest sigh, no matter how low or weak I felt. God loved me no matter how weary or discouraged I had become. He knew how I felt and what I longed for.

I am overwhelmed by God’s intimate love for us—that he listens for something as small as a sigh. Though our suffering may seem a huge burden, it can never keep God from caring for us.

Prayer: Dear God, we thank you that there is nothing—no matter how disabling—that can keep us from you. In our suffering be our comforter and bring us peace. Amen