Hold On

Everyone has bad days.  The world seems a little flat, and gray.  No activity seems worthwhile in pursuing. Words spoken by loved ones or friends that generally inspire humor suddenly churn annoyance in your gut.

Why do we have days like this?  Is it because the worries of life suddenly loom large in our psyche? Overwhelming our body and brain with unrealized stress.  Is it the product of a protracted illness, condition, or some other cause, depleting both our physical and emotional reserves?  Could it be an underhanded attack of the enemy?  An attempt to derail forward momentum in the spiritual life of a faithful believer?  

Whatever the case may be, having a "down day" has the potential to linger.  Becoming a full blown bout of depression if we choose to indulge in the negative twists our brain some times supplies in response to what we are experiencing.  Turning what may only be a one day blip into months…even years…of depression.

I understand what this is like.  How debilitating the effects of depression can become in one's life.  I have struggled with depression off and on for over 15 years now.  In fact, I had a day like this yesterday.  Nothing seemed right.  The thought of going to church and singing seemed a burden, rather than a joy.  Food tasted bland.  Words spoken off the cuff in jest suddenly seemed offensive.  A weight was on my spirit to the extent I felt heaviness and pain in my chest.  

Certainly addressing causes in our lives…financial, physical, relational…is important to effectively responding to a "blue" day such as I experienced.  However I have found what works most effectively for me is to press into God…even when it's the last thing I want to do.  I hold on to Him for strength and protection when emotional or spiritual darkness threaten to overwhelm. 

Often I go to the Psalms of David for inspiration.  If anyone understood holding fast to God, it was this man.  Through his example of faith in the face of adversity and trial (often of his own making) we too can cry out to God for comfort.

If your having a difficult day, meditate…hold on to…these verses.  Allow the word of God to saturate your spirit and mind.  Remember His faithfulness.  Trust that He will safely see you through this spiritual or emotional struggle.

 "I lift up my eyes to the hills – where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip He who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. 

"He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; He is my mighty rock, my refuge." Psalm 62:6-7

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