We're never too big.

"You’re too big to cry." "Chin up." "Take it like a man." So the world admonishes as we enter into the adult arena. Although it may be necessary to keep a stiff upper lip conducting our business affairs, when we are alone with God no pretenses are necessary. To Him we can shamelessly display our many scrapes and bruises.

King David was a mighty man of war. Powerful enemies trembled at the whisper of his name. Nevertheless, David was not ashamed to emulate the child. Both joys and sorrows sent him running to his God. He boldly confesses, "In my distress I called to the Lord: I cried to my God for help" (Ps. 18:6).  

The Mourner's Blessing of Restoration 

In God’s presence David’s pain was eased. Screaming thoughts and emotions were calmed. Peace reigned once again, bringing order to the chaos within. "He restores my soul" (Ps. 23:3), David acknowledges gratefully.

The restoration David experienced is available for present day mourners. But, it may require interrupting our increasingly demanding fast-paced schedules; many times the one-minute quick-fix prayers will not suffice.

Again David leads the way, stating: "Evening, morning and noon I cry out in my distress and he hears my voice" (Ps. 55:17).

Even Jesus had to pray three times before restoration came. "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow…"(Mt. 26:38), he told his disciples upon entering Gethsemane’s garden as the full shadow of the cross was upon him.

What if Jesus had refrained from further prayer after only the first attempt? Or, what if he had departed the garden after just the second venture? Is it likely his soul would have remained overwhelmed with sorrow? After praying the third time, the breakthrough came! He was strengthened--empowered--ready for what lay ahead.

Jesus persevered in prayer and left an example for us to follow. Let us endeavor to not faint or cease praying altogether when our souls are weighted with cares. Let us not become so discouraged that we move on before our help arrives. "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much" (Js. 5:16). Mourners who tenaciously seek God in prayer and in the Word, will in due season be able to say as David, "He restoreth my soul."