There is an old worship song titled, “Trading My Sorrows.” I have been singing the bridge of the song repeatedly for the last week.
I am pressed but not crushed persecuted not abandoned
Struck down but not destroyed
I am blessed beyond the curse for His promise will endure
That his joy’s gonna be my strength Though the sorrow may last for the night His joy comes with the morning
When disappointing news comes, it is easy to stay stuck in the wound. I replay the event over and over. One minute, I want to lash out. The next minute, I want to crawl into bed and stay there for weeks. The bigger the disappointment the longer I want tend to wallow.
Self pity doesn’t get me anywhere. That is when this song comes to mind and I am reminded of God’s promise to be close to the brokenhearted.
17 The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them;
he delivers them from all their troubles.
18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit. 19 The righteous person may have many troubles,
but the Lord delivers him from them all; (Psalm 34: 17-19 MSG)
Singing “Trading My Sorrows” and leaning into this verse brings comfort. It allows me time and space to listen to what God is whispering. It gives me the strength to crawl out from under the covers. It gives me the strength to face whatever is next.
It doesn’t guarantee the resolution I want. It doesn’t guarantee something better is coming. The promise is that God is with me and there is a way through the disappointment. The more I sing God’s praises the faster I move from wallowing to what’s next. I choose trading my sorrows for the joy that comes with praising the One whose promises endure.
What do you do when you receive disappointing news? Do you sing, pray or wallow? Share your story here and breathe life and bring hope to others.