What should I do when I’m sad? - Sorrow - TouchPoints

1 Kings 19:4-6Then he [Elijah] went on alone into the wilderness, traveling all day. He sat down under a solitary broom tree and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors who have already died.” Then he lay down and slept under the broom tree. But as he was sleeping, an angel touched him and told him, “Get up and eat!” He looked around and there beside his head was some bread baked on hot stones and a jar of water! So he ate and drank and lay down again.

Recovery from deep sadness involves a number of factors, including a new perspective. Elijah was tired, hungry, and feeling completely alone. A period of rest, good food, and reengagement with God helped him to regain a proper perspective and to reconnect with God’s purpose for his life. Sorrow can lead to depression when we have lost the hope God offers us and the big picture of God’s purpose for us. Sadness for a time over a loss is natural and appropriate. But if it goes on too long, it can become unhealthy. Begin with rest, good nutrition, and reengagement with God. When we still need help after taking these steps, a godly counselor may be able to help us regain a right perspective.

Deuteronomy 1:21“‘Look! He has placed the land in front of you. Go and occupy it as the Lord, the God of your ancestors, has promised you. Don’t be afraid! Don’t be discouraged!’”

Galatians 6:9So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.

Zechariah 8:6“This is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies says: All this may seem impossible to you now, a small remnant of God’s people. But is it impossible for me? says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.”

When we feel discouraged, it is easy to turn inward and become paralyzed by our sadness and pain. It takes some effort, but we need to refocus our attention on God. Every day he opens opportunities that can bring purpose and meaning into our lives: helping someone in need, volunteering time for a good cause, writing a note of encouragement. When we lift our eyes from the ground, we will see the doors God is opening. We should walk through these doors with courage, and on the other side we will begin to find relief from our sorrow.