Occasionally, we experience deep feelings we’re not quite sure how to put into words. It’s a stirring deep in our bones. Perhaps it’s a nameless dread, or maybe a shadow of anticipation just below the surface. Either way, it becomes a type of Dark Night as we have very little clarity on what’s touching us so deeply.
This, by itself, can leave us more frustrated and moody because we prefer knowing and tackling our issues head on. It might also leave us more sullen and withdrawn. Our usual pleasures don’t delight any more, and they might even feel like an irritating distraction. As such, typical everyday interactions can now put us on the edge of losing our cool, regardless of how much we know we’re overreacting.
Of course, when our mood can be traced back to a clear event trigger, then we should address this core issue accordingly. And sometimes our trusted others can help us to connect dots that we’ve missed. To be sure, our feelings are rarely as random as first assumed. There’s usually a reason why we’re feeling what we’re feeling.
But, during a true Dark Night, it’s possible God is actively working on our souls in ways we may not fully comprehend. And these stirrings are often clues of just this – hints that more is going on, and that maybe we’re being prepared for something more as well.
It’s best in these moments to just let things be – staying open to new insights without demanding complete understanding. And there’s also wisdom in sharing our experience with those around us – not for them to figure anything out, but to simply be aware and to not misinterpret how we’re showing up during these times.
In the end, honor the deep movements of your soul even when you don’t know what to do with them per se. Often this is part of God’s transforming work in your life.
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