Most of us experience depression and anxiety everyday. Perhaps not to the point of being “clinically significant.” But enough to drain our energy. We’re down because something hasn’t gone well. And worried about a future that mightn’t be any different.
What if the answer to your current struggles is completely off your map? What if there is more to be gained from your circumstances than you can see? How would you live differently if you knew The Lord has greater plans for your life?
We often adopt one of two ineffective ways of coping with depression and anxiety.
- If you adopt Survival Mode …
You’ve already experienced a lot of failure and disappointment. Which has left you with a deep sense of inadequacy. And you have lost all hope. You have resolved to just hang on. To try to create the best life possible in your personal Egypt. - If you adopt Management Mode …
You’ve determined to beat whatever (whomever) has kept you from your Promised Land. You’ve adopted the popular belief that “if it’s to be, it’s up to me.” You fight against yourself. And everyone else. Find ways to whip people into shape. Taking charge is your solution.
But what if The Lord has Something Better in mind?
Your circumstances – everything you face and will ever face – are there to draw you back to The Lord. Even depression and anxiety. He put specific desires in your heart. And He is The Only One Who can fulfill them.
- He wants more for your life than mere survival.
- He also knows that if you take charge, you’ll make a big mess.
- For someone. Probably yourself. And the ones you love.
What if God isn’t answering your prayers because He has Something Better in mind than what you’ve been praying? Your depression and anxiety are telling you something important. Why not ask Him what He wants to do? Then pray accordingly. He’ll answer that prayer! (1 John 5:14-15)
neither are your ways my ways,”
declares The Lord. (Isaiah 55:8)
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