Have you ever known someone who is suffering from bipolar disorder? It is very disconcerting. Their demeanor can change in an instant. They may be happy, friendly and even jovial one minute and then become serious, angry and even hateful the next. It is like taking a shower with someone turning the faucet from hot to cold and back to hot again. When they enter the room you never know what to expect from them so you carefully feel them out for a reaction. As hard as that is for those around them, it must be horrible for them. It makes it almost impossible for them to develop and maintain lasting relationships.
You and I also have mood swings at times as a result of our circumstances, but we have a default mood or personality to which we return and it is that normal us others expect. When we aren’t reacting normally, they sense something is wrong and ask if there is anything they can do to help. Even our mood changes become predictable and understandable to those with whom we have a relationship. Being consistent and predictable is good, but how do we maintain it and avoid the extremes?
As always, Jesus is the answer. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8) We can rely on Him no matter what happens. He is consistently loving and merciful. He is also predictably stern when we need correction. We need someone on whom we can always depend and He is that someone. His Spirit within us prompts us to be consistent and predictable like Him so we can be there for others as He is there for us.
Preparing to cross the street at a busy intersection, a mother told her young son to take her hand. He said, “No mommy, you take my hand” She asked, “What is the difference?” He said, “If I hold your hand I might lose my grip and let go, but if you hold my hand I know you won’t let go of me.” That exchange brings to mind the words of a song. “Precious Lord take my hand. Lead me on. Let me stand. I’m tired. I’m weak. I’m worn. Through the storm, through the night, lead me on to the light. Take my hand precious Lord lead me home.”