How Do You Live Through a Crisis - 1210-17

Introduction

Introduction

Horatio G. Spafford was a successful and brilliant Chicago attorney who lost most of his wealth in the financial crisis of 1873. He sent his wife and four daughters on a trip to France, but their ship was struck by another boat and sank. Among 225 passengers, only 87 survived. Mrs. Spafford was among the survivors, but their four daughters died. Upon reaching England, she telegraphed her husband with devastating words: "Saved alone, children lost. What shall I do?" In his deepest bereavement, Horatio Spafford wrote his one and only hymn, "It Is Well with My Soul."

The Power of Pain

The hymn reflects how Spafford rose above the greatest crisis of his life, signifying the power of pain. Amid a crisis, it's crucial to explore how one can live through such turmoil.

Definition of Crisis

A crisis is defined as a difficult or dangerous situation that needs serious attention. Philosophically, it is a turning point for better or worse during an acute disease or fever, and emotionally, it is an event that brings radical change.

Biblical Example: King David

King David, who overcame a crisis involving his son Absalom, serves as a potent example of living through crises. When David, the shepherd boy who killed the giant Goliath, had to flee Jerusalem due to Absalom's rebellion, he experienced one of the most troubling times of his life.

Meaningful Lessons

1. Leadership in Crisis: When David’s men stood by him, they exhibited a rare sense of loyalty, emphasizing the importance of following leadership during challenging times.
2. Faith and Favor: Despite being forced to leave the Ark of the Covenant in Jerusalem, David demonstrates profound faith, believing that if he finds favor in the Lord's eyes, he would return and see it again.
3. Emotions: It’s okay to show human emotions during a crisis. David and his people wept as they moved, expressing their profound sorrow and showing that even leaders can display vulnerability.

Steps to Handling Crisis

1. Understanding God's Presence: Knowing that God's presence is with you, represented by the Ark of the Covenant, provides immense comfort during crises.
2. Faith Over Symbolism: Placing your faith beyond mere symbols, as David did, ensures that the essence of God's favor remains with you.
3. Expressing Emotions: Demonstrating your human emotions, like David weeping as he went, can be a necessary part of healing.
4. Seeking Favor: Trust in God to restore you to your place of joy and habitation, even as you navigate away from it during the crisis.

Conclusion

In times of distress, Horatio Spafford’s hymn and King David’s journey offer solace and guidance. They show that with faith, expression, and seeking favor, one can navigate through crises and emerge stronger.

Keywords

• Crisis
• Faith
• Favor
• Leadership
• Emotions
• Ark of the Covenant
• King David

FAQ

Q: What defines a crisis? A: A crisis is a difficult or dangerous situation needing serious attention, potentially involving a turning point for better or worse and emotional upheaval.

Q: How did Horatio Spafford cope with his crisis? A: Horatio Spafford coped by channeling his grief into writing the hymn, "It Is Well With My Soul," demonstrating resilience and faith in the face of immense personal loss.

Q: What lessons does King David’s story teach about leadership in crisis? A: It highlights the importance of following leadership during challenging times and having faith in God's favor despite adverse circumstances.

Q: Why is it important to express emotions during a crisis? A: Expressing emotions, such as weeping, is a necessary part of healing and demonstrates vulnerability, making it easier to cope and seek support.

Q: How can one seek favor during a crisis according to the article? A: Trust in God’s presence, express your emotions, and have faith that God will restore joy and bring you back to a place of tranquility and strength.