when life's got you down

Today in the One Year Bible, we read from Job 4:1-7:21. And Job isn't happy.

He's so miserable that it says he hated his life and didn't want to live anymore. Have you ever been there? Maybe you're there now. It can be hard sometimes, this life. And when it's dark, it's hard to believe that it will be light again. It's easy to fall into thinking that it's just going to be terrible from now on. That death is preferable.

But God gives us hope. He shines His light down into our darkness and helps us to climb up out of our ashes. He replaces our sackcloth with robes of joy. He makes all things new.

Maybe you still find yourself down in the ashes and you're still wearing the sackcloth. First thing, ask Him to lift you up. He'll show you how to do it. Second, try getting some exercise and check out your diet. Just a brisk walk every day can work wonders on your mood. And eating just a little healthier can make your gut happy... which makes YOU happy.

If you do these things, and you still find yourself down in the dumps, you might find a counselor. Reach out to your friends and let them know you're struggling. Their prayers will make a huge difference, and they might be able to hook you up with someone who can give you the counseling you need to pull out of the doldrums.

But don't forget step one: pray that He helps you. He will. He knows exactly what you need. And He wants you to be full of His joy. In the meantime, while you're figuring it all out, listen to this.  It will make sense of your suffering.

God, thank You for caring that we hurt. Help us find a way out of our darkness.