October 4, 2024

Dreams Interrupted
BRENDA BRADFORD OTTINGER

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“Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.” Psalm 23:4 (NLT)

Envisioning the story of tomorrow, I saw scene upon scene where the little one inside me would someday grow, laugh and live. Yet dreams that once danced deep in the hollows of my heart now rest in a slip of bygone time.

One moment I was pregnant with life — the next, a heartbeat was lost to eternity.

Whether miscarriage or other aching loss, perhaps you, too, know this empty echo in your spirit as you grieve beautiful dreams that have been interrupted. I’m so sorry for your loss, dear friend. It can be so hard to wrap our tender hearts around the loss of a future we expected.

One of my favorite biblical writers, King David, knew a lot about loss, from mourning death (2 Samuel 12; 2 Samuel 18:33) to mourning hardships of life (Psalm 22). I love this comforting scene David penned in Psalm 23, describing God’s presence with him on the darkest of days:

“The LORD is my shepherd … Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me” (Psalm 23:1-4, NLT).

Before David was king, he was a shepherd, so he knew about leading sheep along difficult paths while protecting and providing for them — staying ever close through it all. Throughout the ups and downs of David’s days, he recognized that his God, the Shepherd of his life, was his ever-present source of comfort and support.

David also wrote these comforting words about God in Psalm 139:7-10: “I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there. If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me” (NLT).

Oh, the relief of recognizing, as David did, that even when loss leaves us feeling empty and alone, never once will the Lord leave our side. The great Shepherd of our souls is as close as our very breath, tenderly walking with us through every dark valley of life.

Dear sister, it’s OK to feel what you feel; God isn’t judging you for being human and heartbroken. The Lord understands your disappointment and confusion, and He doesn’t need you to filter your pain.

Your God is right here, right now, loving you where you are.

In times like these when there are no answers to the “whys” as your heart cries, friend, may you rest in the tender love of God, who is forever with you. Curl up in His palm, and be held in the comfort of His care.

Dear Lord, thank You for walking with me all my days. Please help me feel Your loving presence as I grieve the loss of a future I expected. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

OUR FAVORITE THINGS

When world events feel scary and spike your anxiety … When you don’t know who or what to believe … In just one moment, God’s Word can cut through all the noise you’re bombarded with. That’s why we’ve put together our new study guide 1 & 2 Timothy: The Clarity You Need When Life Feels Chaotic, Confusing and out of Control. This five-week study begins on October 28. So get your copy, and join us!

ENGAGE

For more encouragement, connect with Brenda on her website or on Instagram.

FOR DEEPER STUDY

Psalm 34:18, “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (NIV).

Matthew 5:4, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” (NIV).

Have you ever opened a notebook or journaling app and simply poured out your heart to God? It doesn’t need to look pretty; simply come as you are, and rest in the tender care of the Shepherd of your soul.

October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. If you know someone who has experienced miscarriage or lost an infant, consider reaching out to them today with an encouraging word or Scripture verse. Let them know you're praying for them.

We’d love for you to share your heart in the comments.

© 2024 by Brenda Bradford Ottinger. All rights reserved.

Proverbs 31 Ministries
P.O. Box 3189
Matthews, NC 28106
www.Proverbs31.org