When the words will not come

Hi friends! Moadim lesimchah! מועדים לשמחה!

As we spend time in the sukkah this Chol HaMoed, we might find a quiet moment when we want to speak to Hashem. And sometimes, just when we want to open our hearts, the words do not come.

Rebbe Nachman speaks about exactly this in Likutey Moharan II:25: a person stands before Hashem, וְחָפֵץ וּמִשְׁתּוֹקֵק לְדַבֵּר—wanting and longing to speak. Even when the words will not come, he calls that readiness and desire טוֹב מְאֹד—very good.

Let yourself take that in. You wanted to come close to Hashem, and you came. There is already a real turning of your heart toward Him in that desire. You can appreciate that beginning before a single flowing sentence has arrived.

Rebbe Nachman also gives a way to begin: speak to Hashem about this very difficulty. In your own words, you might say:

“Hashem, I want to speak with You. I don’t know where to begin. Please help me find the words in my heart.”

Then allow the next simple sentence to be enough for this beginning.

Even being unable to find words can become something you share with Hashem. He is the One you can ask for help in coming closer.

If that prayer speaks to you too, take a quiet moment with it today. If someone has felt discouraged about personal tefillah, this teaching may mean a great deal to them.

You can find more Lev Emunah reflections in the Daily Inspiration archive, explore the free resource library, or request to join the WhatsApp community.

With love and blessings,
Rabbi Rachamim Bitton