I went to bed mildly anxious, which continued steady enough to keep me awake. The kind of spirally sillies that make you hyperaware of how your stomach and bowels feel, or that make you want to vomit if you even think about the dinner we ate. So here I came for some distraction. Ended up chatting via Facebook with our former pastor, Steve Froehlich, who ended with this hymn we used to sing there.
It is good to have another one to memorize. I have something of a litany of My Shepherd Will Supply My Need, Jesus I am Resting Resting, and Before the Throne, but because of association with past depression and anxiety, it is beginning to feel as much sad and grasping as helpful. A new hymn will bring a little freshness.
Also, the shadow of the Lord — the dark place, just his outline without detail, the now and not yet of the Gospel. Good image.
Safe in the Shadow of the Lord, Beneath His hand and pow’r,
I trust in Him, I trust in Him, My fortress and my tow’r.
My hope is set on God alone, Though Satan spreads his snare,
I trust in Him, I trust in Him, To keep me in His care.
From fears and phantoms of the night, From foes about my way,
I trust in Him, I trust in Him, By darkness as by day.
His holy angels keep my feet Secure from ev’ry stone,
I trust in Him, I trust in Him, And unafraid go on.
Strong in the Everlasting Name, And in my Father’s care,
I trust in Him, I trust in Him, Who hears and answers prayer.
Safe in the Shadow of the Lord, Possessed by love divine,
I trust in Him, I trust in Him, And meet His love with mine.
