I know, you are probably thinking, “here comes another blog post where Chuck explains (read ‘confesses’) his inability to find time to write, and fails to update his blog.” Well, the truth is, yes, and no. There was time for me to write and numerous ideas to explore, yet, there was nothing I felt I could (read ‘should’) post.

I try embrace the guidance of the well-known axiom, “if you don’t have anything good to say, don’t say anything at all.” It is typically a good standard to live by if you want to live peaceably with others, and make a positive impact on the world. It was in this truth that I wrestled while you waited for another update from me. How could I post something positive and constructive when most of what I wrote was quite the opposite?

For several months, I’ve been bombarded with ideas and comments that caused my philosophical and theological skin to crawl. Much like the distracting discomfort felt after someone mentions lice, or following a surprise encounter with a giant spider, I found myself distracted, unnerved, and, I must confess, angry at the level of the emotional terrorism, deception, and shoddy reasoning I continued to encounter. I was slightly fixated, and very frustrated.

I produced very little writing that was fit to share, though I am sure my efforts were personally cathartic. By God’s grace, I was able to preach and teach without the same concerns, but my creative writing suffered greatly. I know many people say you should blog about what makes you passionate, but there are some passions that are best to keep between yourself and God.

Throughout this season, I continued to reflect on King David’s heart, as he navigated his way through difficult seasons by opening his heart to God, and expressing himself openly in that relationship. I was especially drawn to the words of Psalm 63, “When I remember you on my bed, I meditate on you in the night watches. Because you have been my help, therefore in the shadow of your wings I will rejoice. My soul follows close behind you, your right hand upholds me.” (Ps. 63:6-8).

It is all too easy to throw our anger and frustration out in the world. We may even feel quite justified in our actions, but such actions can often become accelerent on an already raging fire, wounding others in the process. Often, the best place to pour out those deep emotions is to the One who knows and understands them even before we speak, and who is able to heal us as he leads us to share such healing with others.

I still get frustrated, even a little angry. Some of the issues will be there for a while, but I am surrendering those struggles into the hands of the God who orders my steps, declares the end from the beginning, and calls me friend. The invitation to take this step greets me every day, every moment, and it is there for you as well. Together, as we place our focus on Christ, chaos will lose its grip, and we will experience more of the abundant life Jesus gives.

What can you surrender today, that will make room for more of God’s peace in your life?