“Why, my soul, are you downcast?  Why so disturbed within me?  Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” (Psalm 43:5 NIV)

           This verse shows us that God will help us overcome emotional turmoil, pain, hurt, frustration, heartache, and loneliness.  This verse starts by recognizing and naming personal inner turmoil or “downcast” feelings.

           It calls us to shift focus from “self” and one’s difficult circumstances, to God who is unchanging and gives us hope.  It shows us that we are to praise and give thanks to God before the situation improves, showing us faith in God helps us to keep going despite the situation we are in.

           Today, no matter what is going on in your life, turn to God and count your blessings, and give thanks, even if it is difficult to do.  Incorporate praising God and giving thanks even before the situations has been resolved.  Do random acts of kindness to get yourself out of your own worries.  Read the Bible, pray, and sing songs of praise to our Lord. As you do these things you are no longer focused on the situation at hand, your eyes are upon God.  Thus, hope emerges, peace is there and you know God will see you through whatever life has thrown your way.  God Bless.  Amen.

denise