Prayer in the Darkness

darkness is where I live
but never where I rest,
right there in the struggle
I learn to love You best.

heartaches are all I know
but never do they define,
nourished in Your favour
my wounded life – You refine.

shadows may come my way
but never do they last,
resting in Your refuge
on You my cares I cast.

trials – heavy on my shoulders
but never enough to crush,
shaping me for Your glory
painting sacred with Your brush.

life lived amongst the dry
but never on my own,
walking with You each day
true blessing I am shown.

Psalm 88:15-18
From my youth I have suffered and been close to death;
I have borne your terrors and am in despair.
Your wrath has swept over me;
your terrors have destroyed me.
All day long they surround me like a flood;
they have completely engulfed me.
You have taken from me friend and neighbour—
darkness is my closest friend.