Courageous and Intentional Daily Living

How to overcome feeling down, sad, depressed, and discouraged.

Have you experienced challenging circumstances that make you feel like you’re the only one going through it? The devil may convince you that your situation is unique, but Ecclesiastes 1:9 reminds us that there is nothing new under the sun. The devil has always been a deceitful and accusatory force, just as he was in the book of Genesis. The devil consistently employs the same tactics to bring us down, often targeting our negative thoughts and emotions. The devil utilizes the weapon of an oppressive spirit to make us feel down, sad, anxious, depressed, discouraged, worn out, and hopeless. 

The devil is using this weapon, and many in the body of Christ are being attacked by depression lately. In the Bible, the devil tried using this oppressive spirit on David. Psalm 42:5-6,11 says, “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will praise him, my Savior and God. My soul is downcast within me; therefore, I will remember you from the land of the Jordan, the heights of Hermon—from Mount Mizar.” David chose to respond by putting his hope in God. Isaiah 40:31 says, “Those who hope in the Lord Will renew their strength. They will soar On wings like eagles. They will run, And they will not grow weary. They will walk, And they will not faint.” David chose to praise the Lord regardless of his feelings.

You might not feel like praising God when you are feeling sad or depressed, but choose to open up your mouth and praise him anyway. Praise will turn your attention from your problems to the problem solver, who is God. 

I Samuel 30:6 says, “David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the Lord his God.” As Christians journey through life, we often face various temptations that can challenge our faith and commitment to God. In times of struggle, it’s essential to remember the words of 1 Corinthians 10:13, which assure us that we are not alone in our battles against temptation. Let us delve into this powerful verse and draw encouragement from the promises it holds.

Common Struggles: The verse reminds us that the temptations we encounter are not unique to us. It is part of the human experience to be tempted and tested. It is comforting to know that others have faced similar struggles and we are not isolated in our challenges.

God’s Faithfulness: Our Heavenly Father is faithful and steadfast. He knows our weaknesses and limitations and promises not to tempt us beyond what we can bear. We must hold on to this truth in times of temptation, knowing God is by our side, watching us with love and concern.

A Way Out: Amidst the throes of temptation, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and helpless. But fear not, for God is merciful and gracious. He will always provide a way out – a path of escape from the clutches of temptation. By relying on His strength and seeking His guidance, we can overcome the allure of sin and find victory.

How can we practically apply this verse in our lives?

Prayer: Maintain a fervent prayer life, constantly communicating with God. Share your struggles, weaknesses, and temptations with Him. Seek His wisdom, strength, and guidance to face each challenge with faith and perseverance.

Scripture: Immerse yourself in the Word of God. Meditate on His teachings, promises, and examples of how others have overcome temptation. The Bible serves as a powerful weapon against the schemes of the enemy.

Accountability and Support: Share your struggles with trusted fellow believers who can offer prayer, encouragement, and support. Together, you can build each other up, walking the path of righteousness hand in hand.

Surrender to God: Let go of the desire for control and surrender your life entirely to God. Trust in His plan for you, even in the face of temptation. By doing so, you open your heart to the transformative power of His grace.

Gratitude: Cultivate an attitude of thankfulness in all circumstances, including testing times. Gratitude helps us focus on God’s blessings and diverts our attention away from the enticements of temptation.

Isabella Mwango Nyakundi