Rx for Discouragement

A lot of hype in the media about H1N1 (nix on calling it “Swine Flu” ---bad ‘wrap’ for the pig farmers—not to mention all those innocent swine…)We’ve had our share of sickness in the Pratt home, but I’m not too bothered by benign physical symptoms of an ill body. I’ve had lots of experience mothering others and ‘doctoring’ myself...and we've all lived to tell about it.
More damaging, in my opinion, is the onslaught of spiritual ill-health which can really bring one down.
When it comes to discouragement, I could be considered a chronic case.
From my ample experience, here’s my suggestion for a straightforward (although rarely easy or necessarily simple) turn-around for this poisonously pernicious malady.

1. Take 2 doses: “Goodness of God”
(I like Psalm 27:13; but any of the following --or your own-- work just fine! Psalm 119:68; Ephesians 2:1-10; Psalm 119:71; Romans 8:31-39; Romans 8:28)

2. Take with full glass of “Prayer of Confession and Prayer for Heart Transformation” (Psalm 139:23: Romans 12:2)

3. Rest… in God’s promises in faith:
Isaiah 40:31; Jer. 31:3,16 & 25; Psalm 41:10; cancel all plans to worry, fret, scheme, micromanage, stew, wallow, withdraw, or other related dangerous activities…

4. Fast…from relying on your feelings and the false messages they may suggest.
Instead drink in the rich, unchanging, objective truth of God’s Word. (i.e. God’s in control of all things, He’s good in all things, His purposes are being accomplished in all things and your weakness can demonstrate His strength -2 Cor. 12:9; Rom. 8:28: Eph 1:11).

5. Take a brisk walk to encourage someone else.
Take some thought for another’s encouragement and put feet to that thought. Need ideas?
Make some soup. Bake some cookies. Write a card. Send a check. Go out for coffee. Send a gift certificate. Babysit their kids. Buy a car (what, you don’t think anyone would buy someone else a car…why not?! If God’s blessed you with the means, how about if you try it & let me know how it goes. I bet you'd no longer be discouraged….and you might be surprised at God’s provision in his/her life, as well….?!) 1 Thess. 5:11 & 14; John 13:14; Romans 12:10; Romans 14:19; Eph 4:32; 1 Pet. 4:9 ; Galatians 6:2

And then….

6. Call on Him in the morning.
His mercies are new (Lamentations 3:21-23).