Naked, But Not Afraid

I feel like I am, but I am not naked.

I feel undressed and uncovered.

I feel a discomfort akin to standing before a closet full of clothing that no longer fits.

The things that used to comfort and cover me can warm me no longer.

.

I feel like I am, but I am not empty.

I feel poured out and wanting.

I feel a deep ache for something more, something fresh to replenish what is lost.

The spicket drips, drips, drips the last of my reserves.

.

I feel like I am, but I am not unwanted.

So many years waiting, and waiting still.

Holding tightly to hopes and dreams that are now almost unrecognizable under the dust.

Doors hang askew on the hinges, the waiting has taken its toll.

.

I feel like I am, but I am not alone.

You clothe me with your righteousness and cover my nakedness.

You fill me with your presence and refresh me with the word of your truth.

You have given me a new name, a lovers name.  I am yours.

And that is enough.

@puttinghopetowork

I had a disturbing dream that night, and as a result was unable to go back to sleep. In the dream, someone had challenged me in a way that there was a very tangible threat of violence if I did not relinquish and retreat. That is what woke me.

As I tossed and turned through the rest of the night, my thoughts eventually turned to areas of disappointment in my life. And as those voices grew louder and louder in my mind, the ache for the unfulfilled (kept silenced and distanced most days) surfaced and brought me near to the point of tears. That is when the phrase “I feel naked” came to me.

Be good to me, God – and now! I’ve run to you for dear life. I’m hiding out under your wings until the hurricane blows over. I call out to High God, the God who holds me together. He sends orders from heaven and saves me, he humiliates those who kick me around. God delivers generous love, he makes good on his word.

Psalm 57:1-3 (MSG)

We all have moments when we feel naked, empty, unwanted and alone. I’m grateful that even in those moments, especially in those moments, there is One who is always ready to comfort and sustain.

Suggested reading: Psalm 34:18, Psalm 73:25-26

Related posts:
https://puttinghopetowork.com/2014/09/29/the-heart-knows-its-own-sorrows/
https://puttinghopetowork.com/2014/02/01/staying-positive-in-difficult-times/