Filling In The Gaps

A gap is a tear or break between two objects. It can be an unfilled space or disruption in continuity (e.g. a sequence of events or in time). Over time a small break in the skin of airplane or the hull of a ship can compromise its integrity. In ancient times, a gap in a city wall compromised security and protection should an invading army attack the city.

I want to address another gap. This break happens in the mind and the soul. It can be a result of violence, distress, family history, unkind words or some other blunt force that ripped open your heart.

No matter what you do to fill in the wounded space between what was and what should be it just seems the empty place widens. At times you feel the "sink hole" in your soul will swallow you up completely. You feel the gap most in moments of intense loneliness or overwhelming sense of fear or falling short or failing to achieve some goal or ambition. Whatever the feelings or experience you can't seem to fill or even bridge the gap.

In Nehemiah 4:7 we read, "But when Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites and the people of Ashdod heard that the repairs to Jerusalem's walls had gone ahead and that the gaps were being closed, they were very angry." (NIV).

You can be sure when the Lord mends the gaps in your mind and heart it will enrage the Enemy. Filling in the gaps is evidence of God's maturing work in your life. You are learning to say "yes" to the Lord and obey quickly which means protection from the Devil. It means no longer acting foolishly in giving a foothold for the Enemy to wedge his way inside your head or heart.

After a gap is repaired there may be scars or discoloration with a different material used to fill in the hole. But for the believer it serves as a reminder of God's work to restore those broken places. Here is an encouraging promise when God is filling the gaps in your heart.

The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. (Psalms 18:2, KJV).