I struggled with inner sadness for a few weeks. When I try to figure out what I was sad about, I really couldn’t think of anything. Even though I couldn’t point out exactly what I was feeling down about, the feeling of brokenness was all too real. Was I depressed? I’m not sure. I should have consulted an expert about it, but I didn’t. I think I’m doing good now.
My emotional and psychological turmoil encouraged me to reflect on my thoughts daily.
Do I think about my mistakes and failures?
Am I dwelling on self-condemnation?
Do I think about the things of God?
Sure enough, I learned that there were days that I just punish myself psychologically for all my shortcomings.
Worry, guilt, and self-condemnation should not fill our minds because God loves us despite all our failures. The Bible says:
Micah 7:18-19
New International Version (NIV)
18
Who is a God like you?
who pardons sin and forgives the transgression?
of the remnant of his inheritance?
You do not stay angry forever.
But delight to show mercy.
19
You will again have compassion on us;
you will tread our sins underfoot
and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.
The good thing about thoughts is that we can change what we’re thinking about. If we realise we’re dwelling on negative thoughts, we should stop and strive to think about something else. Read a good book, watch a movie, play video games, prepare a good meal, play sports, watch a game, or hang out with friends.
The best thing to do is to focus on the promises of God. Open your Bible and look for Jesus’ signs of hope, forgiveness, abundance, mercy, grace, power and salvation. Watch YouTube videos of preachers, worship leaders, or join a small church group.
Thoughts are powerful. What you perceive with your mind will translate into reality. Don’t dwell on negativity. Think about what you’re thinking about.
Thank you for reading this devotional story, and I pray that it encouraged and empowered you in your walk with Christ. Please read other devotional stories on the website. You might find Burn Out, Change Your Mind, and Depressing Demons appealing.
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