How do we avoid discouragement or depression when events in our world, nation, or lives place us under intense stress?
We are two and a half years into a global pandemic. A nation has been unjustifiably attacked, and other countries including our own are under threat of war. Many have lost faith in the integrity of our government, institutions, and public schools. The United States is experiencing the negative outcomes of self-inflicted policies. Anxiety intensifies when people struggle financially and items they need are inaccessible.
Many people are dealing with personal or family health issues and others are enduring grief. Violence in our cities seems out of control. Fentanyl from China trafficked through Mexico has poisoned tens of thousands of Americans. Drugs continue to damage and kill our population. Family relationships are fractured.
We live in a broken and hurting world. How do we manage when we feel helpless to change the circumstances?
Jesus told us “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
Mankind has had to deal with illness, loss, failure, injustice, persecution, violence, and deprivation since the beginning of time—as a result of sin. “… for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God …” Romans 3:23
| We are all flawed. Doing good things, being nice, going to church, or being raised in a Christian family won’t save us. There is nothing we can do to save ourselves, only Jesus can. God will forgive us if we confess and repent for our sins with genuine sorrow and Jesus will save us— |
God will forgive us if we confess and repent for our sins with genuine sorrow and Jesus will save us—“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us o
ur sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9
“… if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Romans 10:9-10
We can trust that God is Sovereign, and nothing takes Him by surprise
“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28
When we become a believer, the Holy Spirit indwells us, He guides us, comforts us, convicts us, aids us in discernment and prayer, and enlightens and empowers God’s call in our lives.
“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have told you. John 14:26”
“However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. John 16:13”
We will always have temptations and trials but because we have the Holy Spirit we never face our difficulties alone. We can experience the peace of God.
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The peace of God is more than harmony between people and groups and the absence of conflict. |
With the peace of God, we are “able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height—to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:18-19
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7In experiencing God’s peace our trust in Him grows.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding;” Proverbs 3:5
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
“Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?” Matthew 6:26-27
“casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7
“Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I
will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
How are you dealing with the stresses that life brings?
Thank you, Janet! I needed a reminder of all these wonderful promises that God gives to us. This world is temporary, but heaven is eternal. I keep”looking up” and await His return.
God bless you
You’re so right, Kathy.
While our hope isn’t here, I’m reminded that my role is to pray for godly, wise leaders–and for revival.
Blessings