There are times when I go through a rough patch and battle discouragement. What do you do when your mind is a battle ground?
The key for me is to take back control of my thoughts.
“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5).
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, 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. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Phil. 4:6-8)
The first step for me is to notice those looping negative thoughts.
Then, I take a deep breath and ask myself questions like these:
- Is that true based on the facts or a feeling I have? If it’s a feeling, I spill it out before the Lord. Then, I prayerfully ask the Lord why I feel that way. Then, I ask God to change my heart, and I think about what God says about the issue. (See below.)
- Is it something I can change or not? Is it something I can influence (guide)? If I cannot change or influence it, I remind myself that God is sovereign and He has a perfect plan. Then, I pray. I ask for wisdom, clear direction, and for the Lord to work in the situation. I also ask the Lord to help me focus on Christ and do what He’s set before me to do.
Sometimes, Christian music helps me let go and turn whatever it is over to the Lord. This song by Megan Woods is wonderful!
Another thing that helps me is to find or create a list of Scriptures that speak to my heart. It reminds me of the truth when the lies seem loud and strong.
This time, I found a list of Bible verses that someone else created. Here’s the link. I’ve printed out the list, and I try to read through it at least once a day. (I don’t always succeed, but I try.) I also turn to it as needed throughout the day. Today, my favorite is “The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning” (Lam. 3:22-23).
What Scriptures do you turn to when you’re discouraged?
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