God said, “Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night. And let them be for signs and for seasons, and for days and years… [Genesis 1:14].
The seasons were initiated when He spoke the Earth into motion. Although Spring has arrived- we know that the weather can change on a dime here in Denver. But weather is only a part of what makes Spring so exciting and motivating. It represents newness, resuscitation, freshness, life, joy, and hope.
As we move into Spring- pause to do a quick self-assessment. Close your eyes, take a deep breath in, exhale, and… how do you feel? Are you exhausted by the circumstances of life? Or do you feel hope, and peace despite overwhelming life events? 1 Thessalonians 5:18 tells us to give thanks in all circumstances– 2 Thessalonians 3:16 says the Lord of peace will continually grant you peace in every circumstance– In Philippians 4:11, Paul wrote I have learned to be content in any circumstance.
I want to be more like Paul.
Brief sadness, frustration, anger, and extended grieving in some cases are normal, appropriate, human responses to the tragedies of our life. However, for some, the sadness and anger can be a daily struggle and turn into hopelessness, bitterness, and despair.
Is it possible to break out of this way of thinking?
How can we shatter the despair that seems so deep and immovable?
Will I be depressed forever?
Yes, it’s possible. No you do not have to be depressed forever.
Shattering despair and negative thinking patterns takes a persistent choosing not to allow these thoughts to ruminate and these feelings to dictate your quality of life.
Decisions, decisions… This word means “a cutting off.” The root word -cis come from a Latin root which means ‘cut’ or ‘kill.’ A decision, for instance, is a ‘cutting off’ of all possibilities except for one; if you are decisive you have ‘killed’ all other options. This killing takes hard work, counseling in some cases, and hope for change.
Can I do it on my own?
I would argue that it is impossible to do this alone. But Philippians 4:13 is a verse that has been burned into my conscious for some time and can be summoned immediately when I have lost sight of hope…. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. A simple truth with complicated and terrifying implications. “All things” pretty much covers it. The fact is that you and I are far more capable than we give ourselves credit for. If we truly believed this Scripture with blind and deep faith, we would be unstoppable in Jesus name to tackle anything we came across.
Acknowledge that you need Him.
Ask Him to help you shift your thinking and emotions.
Acquire help, accountability and support from encouraging and wise friends, family members, and professional counselors.
You are worthy of healing.
“Let us press on to know the LORD; his going out is sure as the dawn; he will come to us as the showers, as the spring rains that water the earth.” [Hosea 6:3]
