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Lately, it seems I've been there much too long. I become hopeful and anticipate changes in my current circumstances. But then it doesn't come through and I'm back to square one.
I can think of a few ways I'd love to deal with my discouragement.
A vacation to the Milliken Creek Inn in Napa, California would be nice. I can just see myself having breakfast in the garden and sleeping in this comfy looking bed ...
Photo Credit: Milliken Creek Inn & Spa |
Milliken Creek Inn |
How often do you seek out ways to help you feel better when you're discouraged?
Each one of you might have a different way of coping with discouragement.
- Food, especially sweets
- Alcohol
- Anxiety medications
- Shopping
- Spending money
- Spending time with a friend
- Talking it over with a therapist
- Time with your spouse or loved one
I'm sure you could add to the list.
Although taking a vacation away from it all would be fun and relaxing, it would only be a temporary fix for my discouragement.
As a Christian, I don't want to live my life based on my emotions. I have to remind myself what the Scriptures say:
John 14:27 – Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:1 – Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.
Philippians 4:6-8 – Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Psalm 138:7 – Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes, with your right hand you save me.
II Corinthians 4:7-9 – But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.
I make the heart choice to believe what the Bible says and as a result I begin to feel better.
- I have more peace.
- I begin to look at life from a different perspective; a place of gratitude.
- Instead of thinking about all that I don't have, I remember the everyday blessings God has given to me.
- I begin to praise Him.
- I find that my discouragement lifts and I'm able to encourage others.
Today I'm jamming with The Faith Barista. Bonnie also asked us to share a moment when we felt close to God.
I feel close to God when I pray and read my Bible. And I feel close to God when I am with children.
Blessings and love,