The Value of Tears

I was sharing with my cousins this weekend, how God used last year to teach me a little bit about the value of tears. I know some of you won't believe this, but I have never been much of a "cryer" and yet, last year, through a series of difficult circumstances, the non-tearful days were less common than those that were tearful. I was so frustrated by that in the beginning. I knew that it was only a season I was going through and that seasons change. I knew that there would be joy and laughter again, and I wanted to skip right to that place, but I believe our loving Heavenly Father had things to teach me in the tears. As I read passages about "crying out to the Lord" and found Him faithful to hear and come quickly, I learned that He, indeed, is near to the brokenhearted. As I read passages about "sowing in tears" and "reaping in joy" I learned to believe Him for the harvest. As I read passages about Him storing my tears in a bottle, I realized that they were precious to Him and I could make them an offering. God knew the deepest aches I was experiencing, and He allowed me the opportunity to offer Him a sacrifice of praise. As I shared these things with my family, Steven pointed me to this song by Casting Crowns. I had to share the lyrics with you, for those of you who've been in this place, and for those of you who may be there now.


"Praise You In This Storm"

I was sure by now
That You would have reached down
And wiped our tears away
Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say "Amen", and it's still raining

As the thunder rolls
I barely hear Your whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away

I'll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
Every tear I've cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

I remember when
I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry
You raised me up again
My strength is almost gone
How can I carry on
If I can't find You

As the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away

I lift my eyes unto the hills
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord
The Maker of Heaven and Earth