In the middle of the muddle

In the middle of the muddle

Was thinking this morning about the words “muddle / wallow” and their action words “muddling / wallowing”.
The dictionary definition is: 

mud·dle – verb: muddling

 bring into a disordered or confusing state.
 synonyms: confuse, mix up, jumble (up), disarrangedisorganizedisorderdisturb, mess up
“you’ve muddled things up”
confuse (a person or their thoughts).

synonyms: bewilderconfusebemuseperplexpuzzlebafflemystify “she became muddled”

 busy oneself in a confused and ineffective way.

God reminded me when Paul and Silas were thrown into prison.  (Acts 16:16-40)   Now I’m far from being a “Paul” but I sure know the feeling when it looks dark and hopeless!  The account reads in verse 25, “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.”  

What really spoke to me is the fact that Paul and Silas had decided to focus on and worship God.  In the middle of a dark, disturbed, confusing state they found it within themselves to take their eyes off of their issues and give the Lord praise.     Others around us can plainly see our dilemmas even when we try to hide or disguise them.  The reflection of our trust and reliance on our Father is constantly being interpreted by those around us…whether we realize it or not.

Lord give me/us the strength and energy to start ‘praising’ You in any situation that even has the appearance or feeling of confusion or disorder.  Help us out of our self pity and wallowing.  You do have our best interest at heart!”