“Why are you cast down, O my soul,
and why are you in turmoil within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,
my salvation and my God.”
– Psalm 42:11
It’s understandable to feel turmoil, discouragement, and despair during this season we’re experiencing as a world. But there is hope, and it isn’t in the form of a cure or a vaccine! The solution for these feelings that threaten to overwhelm us isn’t to wait for better news. Rather, it’s to anchor our hope in God. When we’re downcast, deeply unsettled, and overwhelmed we must draw near to God, rather than looking within ourselves or out to the world for the answer. Only God provides ultimate and lasting soothing and healing for our troubled spirits. Everything else, both inside and out, is but an illusion or short-term fix (often with long-term consequences).
Draw near to God when you’re troubled: drop everything and read His Word, reflect on it, pray through it, speak to the Lord honestly and often, give voice to everything good and bad racing through your mind. Praise Him for what He’s done in the past in your life, in the world, through His Son Jesus. Trust that He is working in the present even if you can’t see it. Lean on Him for He is very present with you through Christ even if you can’t feel it. Love Him, serve Him, share Him. Take heart in His love and care for you. Embrace His purpose for your life. Seek friendship and regular encouragement from others who love Him. Trade your anxieties for supernatural peace that transcends human understanding (Philippians 4:6-7[PP1] ).