Joy.

I haven't really known what to think or write this weekend. I've had my own personal hurts and disappointments this past week but what does that compare to losing your child in a senseless violent act?

I was on FB Friday, before knowing about the shootings, and someone posted the words, "Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy." The words immediately struck me and I felt as if they were for me, as I have sown many tears this past year over some things and have been praying for God to speak to me, to show me He hears my prayers.

And then yesterday, I was playing the piano and felt like playing a hymn. I have this amazing hymn book that my MIL gave me that I love so I opened it up and the first song I came to was a hymn called, "They That Sow in Tears." (coincidence, right? ;)

                  They That Sow In Tears

"Though it seems that your prayers have been in vain,
Though your faith the world would destroy
Though your heart should ache 'til it breaks in two,
They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.

Chorus:
They that sow in tears shall reap in joy,
For God is on the throne.
Though you've prayed 'til it seems that your heart would break,
They that sow in tears shall reap in joy!

Though the mists of despair cloud the sky above,
Do you pray 'til His face appears?
In your heart do you know that you've touched the throne?
They shall reap in joy who sow in tears.

Chorus.

Does your heart fill with doubt when alone you pray?
Does the world your soul annoy?
Lift your sights! Look beyond! God is standing near!
They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.

Chorus.


If you are going through anything, struggling with anything, praying for something with your whole heart, let these words speak to you. It says in Psalm 126:5 these very words, "They that sow with tears shall reap in joy." He hears. He is near. He loves you.

I am learning to believe that with my heart. And "even if" xyz happens or doesn't happen, my heart will choose to say, "Blessed is the Name of the Lord."