mental strength

I just finished reading the Alan Johnston story from the BBC website. Alan Johnston was kidnapped in Gaza and held for 114 days as a hostage before being finally freed. It's an encouraging story and one that makes me reflect a lot on my own life.

One thing that struck me the most about his captivity is how mentally strong he was; he knew that all he could control was the state of his mind, and he set about ensuring that he remain mentally tough. I can imagine what it's like to be alone day after day, without any clear sense of time, nothing to read, nothing to do. It certainly takes a steadfast mind to keep from going crazy. Yet Alan Johnston was able to stay hopeful and cling to any positive thought.

His story made me want to read and absorb the Bible so much more. If I were in his situation, not being able to read or write or have any contact with the world, the only solace would be to hear God's voice. And I know that I would be able to pray and hear God that way, but how much more comforting to be able to recount scripture in my heart! Especially when I am weak, unable to pray, doubting, scared and in despair--God's promises would be something strong and secure to cling to. Something real, and not just in my head.

I know many of us face tough mental battles each day. Some of us, including myself, are in spiritual "captivity," so to speak, in some areas of our lives. Reading about Alan Johnston reminds me that the only way to get through our daily battles is to cling tightly, fervently, as-if-your-life-depended-on-it, to God's precious word.