Date:
November 13, 2024Why We Lie
Why do people keep telling us to look for the light at the end of the tunnel? That the world is wonderful? That life is a bowl of cherries? Here’s the truth—life apart from God is the pits.
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Depression
We are imperfect people living among other imperfect people in an imperfect world. That has numerous effects. We do things contrary to God's Word and experience guilt as a result. We also get angry but mishandle it by repressing it or becoming bitter. We suffer physically and emotionally. All these things can result in depression—feeling hopeless, dejected, and sad—becoming inactive and not being able to sleep or focus on normal tasks. Most of us experience this at one time or another.
The Lord knows depression is part of the human condition and provides answers to help us. He gives biblical examples of people who experienced it. In His Word He shows us some of its causes and cures: Elijah (1 Kings 19); Jonah (Jonah 4); David (Psalm 69). The Lord provides hope to the depressed. His Person (He is faithful, powerful, loving, and wise), His promises (to meet our needs, give strength, to protect), and His presence (He will never leave us or forsake us) all bring hope to the weary of soul. God also gives reasons for suffering and pain—to teach us (James 1:3), strengthen us (1 Peter 5:10), discipline us (Hebrews 12:5-11), and make us like Christ (Romans 8:28-29), to name just a few reasons. His unfailing love is also offered to comfort and encourage us when we are depressed (2 Corinthians 4:8-11; 7:6).
Behaviour, Decisions, and Choices
We can’t change our feelings but we have total control over our behaviour. And our behaviour is linked to our decisions, because those choices are ours. When we choose obedience to God it brings Him favour.
Crucibles
Pain is a part of life. And it’s in these “crucibles” our identity is shaped. Hard times are a transformative experience.
Where Do I Go With This Broken Heart?
Pain in our lives is an opportunity to depend further on Christ. In the process, our faith is strengthened.
The Complete Picture
God sees everything from the beginning to the end. But you have a limited view. Although in the moment you may be feeling defeated or forgotten, God sees the final scene. And from His perspective, it’s beautiful.
Your Brook is Dried Up
Author John Bunyan was in a seemingly hopeless situation when he penned Pilgrim’s Progress, a book still impacting lives today...300 years later. Whatever tough stuff you’re dealing with remember God is with you, working through you, in His perfect timing and in His perfect way.
Laughing When Discouraged
What do you do when you lose heart? We've all been there. You're so discouraged you just want to give up. One of the best cures for discouragement is a good laugh.
Pessimistic Thinking
If you’ve ever been in that muddy hole called the Slough of Despond, you can relate to Christian in The Pilgrim’s Progress. Despondency, or the pits, is really pessimism. It’s a gloomy, negative attitude, which often comes when we rely on ourselves instead of God. Whenever negative thoughts come knocking, don’t open the door. Instead, turn your thoughts to God.
One of Those Upper-Downer Days
“Upper” days lift our spirits and send them soaring. “Downer” days leave us sad and discouraged. As we face our own upper-downer days, we can learn from Abraham’s experience how to put things in proper perspective and find our balance.
One Plus One Equals Survival
If we take Solomon's counsel to heart, two are better than one, we learn how to survive lonely, desolate days.
