Looking Up When Life Weighs You Down

One of my favorite things to do here in Wales is visit old castles. There’s just something about the history and architecture that fascinates me. But as much as I love exploring these ancient structures, I always end up with a pain in my neck the next day.

When you're walking around a castle, you're constantly looking up. You're admiring the tall towers, the intricate carvings, and the beautiful stained glass windows. But, after a while, all that looking up can take a toll on your neck (especially if you already have neck issues).

Life can be the same way. We want to be positive and keep looking up, but sometimes, circumstances causes such a pain in the neck that we find our gaze slipping down to the depths of despair. Our “eyes fail with looking upward.”

But that's where our faith comes in. In Isaiah 38:14, the prophet writes, "Like a crane or a swallow, so did I chatter: I did mourn as a dove: mine eyes fail with looking upward: O Lord, I am oppressed; undertake for me."

Isaiah was going through a tough time. He was sick and in pain, and he felt like he couldn't keep looking up anymore. But, instead of giving up, he cried out to God. He asked God to undertake for him, to take on his burdens and carry him through.

And that's the beauty of our faith. When the weight of the world feels too heavy, we can lean on God's everlasting arms. He is our refuge and our strength, a very present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1). When our eyes fail from looking upward, He offers us a fresh perspective. He reminds us that He is the God who parted the Red Sea and brought down the walls of Jericho. He is the God who raised Lazarus from the dead and healed the sick.

God is not only capable, but eager to assist us in our time of need. He is not a distant deity, indifferent to our trials. Rather, He is a compassionate Father who looks after His children. He knows our every thought and feeling, and He is always prepared to listen when we call out to Him.

As it says in Isaiah 41:10, "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."

So, the next time you're feeling overwhelmed and your neck (or your spirit) is aching from looking up, remember that you don't have to bear that burden alone. Cry out to God and ask Him to undertake for you. He’s always there, eager and able to assist.

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. - 1 Peter 5:7