Troubled?

Yesterday a friend said she was down in the dumps. That’s one way the Psalmist describes the emotional state of being “cast down.” Sara was disappointed that her family couldn’t attend a reunion. For others, discouragement comes from hearing a medical diagnosis or with a car repair when money is limited. Our circumstances lead us to disappointment, discouragement, uncertainty, or just having a bad day.

When the apostle Paul experienced bad days, he looked beyond them, saying “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content” (Philippians 4:11). Contentment wasn’t instantaneous, but a process. He learned to rise above his troubles by focusing on God. Psalm 42 tells us to put our hope in God and that is what Paul did. He knew God was his provider and sustainer (Philippians 4:19).