Sitting at the piano sometimes plays a huge part in how I process things. I realized years ago that this was a cathartic and vital way for me to bring my thoughts, emotions, anger, fears to the Lord for Him to filter through, reframe and correct. I think of it like more than just worship. Although it IS worship. I intentionally invite Him in. I intentionally wait and then HE invites me in to that secret place. Where I’m hidden from the storm, the world, the drama. I think it’s my way of running into Him as my Strong Tower. I’ve run to Him in times of joy and overflowing praise in my heart. I have also run to Him with my hair on fire. LOL or even my brave or angry questions. He can handle my emotions and He meets me wherever I am and pretty soon I meet Him where HE IS and I settle in to LISTEN instead of speak, or sing…. It’s like tuning the radio station in to get rid of the static. And most of the time the static is ME! Can you relate? He knows I’m all up in my feelings and He gently reminds me of who I am— and whose I am. He can handle my processing time. He is WITH me in that space too.
I tell my clients – ’emotions are not bad but we can’t put them in charge’. They are not the deciding factor – nor do they get to lead. Sometimes I even have to tell them to “SIT DOWN”. I believe its in these places when He proves His faithfulness. He waits patiently for me to finally ask what HE thinks or wants in whatever place I’m in. Whatever song I’m playing on the piano follows my heart. My hard questions and ‘need to know why’ will find a beat or chords that fits the situation or story I’m playing out. Sometimes it’s like I’m making my case before the Lord. “You LOVE justice Lord! – You can bring it on this situation! Rain down your justice (in my time Lord) ” Eventually the question becomes “Will you trust me in this hard place Lisa?” My rhythm slows, my attention shifts from me to Him. Sometimes it’s like He reaches out to turn my face towards His. Like a gentle Father … suddenly I hear the tune I’m playing… “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame but wholly lean on Jesus name. On Christ the solid rock I stand. All other ground is sinking sand. All other ground is sinking sand. I turn my eyes to Him again and again.
What’s your process for processing? Sounds like a funny question- but understanding what your process looks like can really be helpful in moving forward. I have a private process (like playing the piano/worship/prayer) and I have small circle of safe people I can process with. If you don’t know what your process is or don’t have a process- maybe it’s time to start working on one. Practicing His presence doesn’t look the same for everyone. If you’d like help in developing yours or you feel stuck and are ready to move forward – let’s talk.
My Prayer…
I will trust you Lord in this hard place. You are my HOPE and I am grateful for your love, and faithfulness….for your grace and patience Lord. Help me Lord to bounce back quickly. To get better at trusting you in the hard places so that I can shine a light for others to find you, trust you and love you.
Good News Coaching 