Psalms.42.11- “Why are thou cast down, O my soul? And why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God: for I shall yet praises him, who is the health of my countenance and my God.” Have you ever reached a season in your life when no one else is around to encourage you? Maybe it’s a rocky situation that no one around you has encountered. Or maybe you just don’t have anyone around you that you can talk to because somehow you know they won’t understand. This is the time that you have to encourage yourself.

You are not alone in this season of depression, melancholy or despondency. Every human has or will come face to face with depressing situations, thoughts and or motives. The Psalmist in this passage was depressed and the worst part was that he was in a place where he had no one (human) to rely on. He was not just oppressed but the scripture shows us that they mocked him as well.

Many believers would react the same way the Psalmist did if ever they were in such a situation. However, many believers also believe that Christians shouldn’t be depressed. There are times in our lives, my friend when depression and sorrow will befall us, Christian or not. It’s simply a part of life.

But notice what the Psalmist did; he didn’t stay and wallow in the really horrible situation.

He encouraged himself in the Lord.

I love how the Bible always meets us where we are. It may be over 2000 years old but it is still relevant and applicable to any and every situation that we face today. That is the mighty power of God.

God let us have a glimpse into the depression of the Psalmist while giving us a way out. Sometimes all can do is to encourage yourself. When you have messed up and struck out or when your back is jammed tight against the wall; encourage yourself in the Lord.

The Psalmist recognized his deep despair and he cried out to God. He really did not need anyone around him to remind him that God was with him. He knew that God was with him and that he could rely on him because God always keeps his word.

Another version (The message) says our main verse like this:

“Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul? Why are you crying the blues? Fix my eyes on God— soon I’ll be praising again. He puts a smile on my face. He is my God.”

When it seems like everything is falling apart and all hope is gone encourage yourself in the Lord. Pray to him while you are going through it, sing songs of praise while you bask in his goodness. Remember his promises because he will always uphold them. He will never leave nor forsake you. And he will be with you until the end of the age.

The Psalmist used the key verse earlier in Chapter.42. In verse.5 he says the very same thing. Repetition is important to internalize specific truth. Unlike Paul and Silas who had each other when they were imprisoned; the Psalmist turned to God and found comfort in his omniscience. God was there and he was enough.

Trials will come, dark days will arise but you have the holy ghost within and God’s word with you; that’s all you need to encourage yourself in the Lord.

Insight from God’s word:

Read the whole chapter of Psalms.42

Philippians.4:8

Deuteronomy.31:8

Psalms.40:1-3

Romans.8:38-39

1 Peter.4:12-3

Prayer:

Dear Jesus,
Thank you for your word that resonates with me in any situation I’m in. Thank you for being with me always and for being so dependable always. I love you and trust you to help me through tis difficult time as I continuously encourage myself in you. In Jesus name, Amen.

Related Posts:

4 verses to help when you feel lonely

10 passages of scripture that gives comfort

7 ways to encourage yourself in the Lord