Silent Sufferers

In a popular song, “People Need the Lord,” author Steve Green wrote: “On they go through silent pain living fear to fear. Laughter hides their silent cries, only Jesus hears.”

We live in a world where people are crying out for love. They long for a touch from someone who actually cares. 

Although people are hurting, many hide their hurts. 

Why? They may be ashamed. Perhaps they’ve reached out before and not received the results they were hoping for.

Some fear opening up to others may bring rejection and further pain. 

Their suffering has become their new normal. They think they just need to cope and deal with the situation they’re facing.

Many believe no one really cares. 

They’ve lost hope.

Whatever their reason, people suffer in silence.

You probably pass dozens of these hurting people, on the streets, in your workplace and possibly even in your own home. You may be unaware of how they’re suffering and the difference you can make in their lives.

Silent sufferers choose to hide their pain. So how can we know?

God knows. And he cares

He wants us to be his arms reaching out to give hope: To let those suffering know that people do care, that their suffering has not gone unnoticed. That God sees them and all their struggles. They matter to him. They are deeply loved.

Consider starting your day with these two prayers.

-Ask God to use you to make a specific impact on those who need love today, to use you to make a difference.

-Ask him to open your eyes to these hurting people; that your life situations will not blind you to the needs of others.

Then, go about your day expecting God to use you. And he will. Be assured God wants you to be his instrument to bless those suffering. That’s one answer to prayer you can count on.

You have no idea how God can use you. 

You can make a difference in people’s lives.

Ask for it. Expect it.