Despair is at least partially common to all people. For some, however, the feeling of despair becomes so strong that death seems preferable to life.
The Bible shows that even the faithful servants of God are not immune to the problems and pressures that lead to despair. Take, for example, Elijah and Job, who had a good relationship with God. After Elijah fled from the wicked Queen Jezebel to save his life, "he [Jehovah] began to ask that his soul die". (1 Kings 19: 1-4) Righteous Job suffered a number of tragedies, including a serious illness and the death of ten children. (Job 1: 13-19; 2: 7,8) His desperation made him say, "I prefer death to all my suffering". (Job 7:15, The New English Bible) Obviously, concern for these faithful men of God had grown quite intense.
For some today, hopelessness can result from the painful effects of aging, the death of a spouse, or serious financial difficulties. Others feel that relentless stress, the lingering effects of a traumatic experience, or family problems make them feel like they are floating in the middle of the ocean, with each wave making it difficult to access the coast. One man said: “You feel worthless, like you won't miss anyone after you leave. The loneliness we feel is sometimes unbearable. ""
In some cases, circumstances change for the better and relieve this heavy pressure. But what if our circumstances don't change? How Can the Bible Help Us Cope With Despair?
The Bible can help
Jehovah had the ability and power to help Elijah and Job in the midst of trouble. (1 Kings 19: 10-12; Job 42: 1-6) How comforting is this knowledge for us today! The Bible says: "God is a refuge and a strength for us, a helper whom we can easily find with our problems." (Psalm 46: 1; 55:22) Although desperation seems to seize us, Jehovah promises to hold us fast with his right hand of righteousness. (Isaiah 41:10) How can we benefit from this help?
The Bible declares that through prayer, "the peace of God which transcends all thoughts will keep [our] hearts and [our] spiritual faculties through Jesus Christ". (Philippians 4: 6, 7) Because of our fear, we may not see a solution to our problem. However, if we “keep praying,” Jehovah can protect our hearts and minds and give us the strength we need to endure. - Romans 12:12; Isaiah 40: 28-31; 2 Corinthians 1: 3, 4; Philippians 4:13.
We will benefit from being correct in our prayers. While it is difficult to put our thoughts into words, we should feel free to speak to Jehovah about how we are feeling and what we perceive to be the root of the problem. We must ask his power to support us every day. We are sure that "the wish of those who fear [Jehovah] will be granted and that he will hear their cry for help and save them". - Psalm 145: 19.
In addition to praying, we must resist isolation. (Proverbs 18: 1) Some have found the strength to give themselves to others. (Proverbs 19:17; Luke 6:38.) Think of a woman named Mary * who not only battled cancer, but lost eight relatives in just one year. Maria had to make an effort to get out of bed and continue with her routine. He went out to teach the Bible to others almost every day and attended Christian meetings regularly. When she got home, Maria's fear returned strongly. However, by focusing on helping others, Maria can endure it.
But what if we find it difficult to pray or if we cannot get out of isolation? In this case we have to seek help. The Bible encourages us to reach out to "the elders of the Church". (James 5: 13-16) A man with severe and persistent depression said: “Sometimes it helps to speak to someone you trust, relax your mind and soul, so that rational thinking prevails. (Proverbs 17:17) Obviously, when persistent and severe discouragement indicates a medical problem, appropriate professional help may be required. * (Matthew 9:12.)
While there are no easy solutions, we must not underestimate God's ability to help us solve our problems. (2 Corinthians 4: 8). If we continue to pray, avoid isolation, and receive expert help, we can regain stability. The Bible promises that God will completely remove the roots of our intense despair. Christians are determined to trust him while waiting for the day when "these old things will not be remembered".
Good one,this is awesome