Katherine Marshall Ministries

Have you ever been in a place in your life where it feels like work just to smile? Where you didn’t even realize how unhappy you were until you spent time with someone who was filled with joy? I know that I have.

Sometimes discouragement can creep up on us and consume us like a disease. It slowly takes over one tiny piece at a time. You might not even realize how bad it is until you hang around someone who is happy.

I’m reminded of a quote that I heard a recovered drug addict say years ago. He said, “The problem is that you don’t even realize that you are dirty until you spend time with people who are clean.”

Those words struck me so powerfully.

I don’t know who needs to hear this today, but you are not alone in your struggle. God sees you and wants to renew your hope. The Bible teaches that the way to lift heaviness is through praise. Don’t isolate yourself. Find a bible study group, prayer group, or a good therapist, and talk about your struggle with those that will come along side you and support you. Write out a list of the good things that you ‘do’ have and tell God thank you. Spend time in worship and prayer.

Most of all, do not stay alone in your struggle!!! You need people and you need to talk about it. And remember that you are not alone in these emotions. You will be surprised at how many others can relate and empathize with you when you let yourself open up.

I have been there, and I can testify to you that there is a way out of discouragement. The first step to healing is admitting that you are struggling and need help. Call upon the name of Jesus, He understands you and loves you deeply. Reach out to someone!!!

Love, -KM

Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life. [Pro 13:12 NIV]

Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. [James 5:16 NKJV]

To console those who mourn in Zion, To give them beauty for ashes, The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, The planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.” [Isaiah 61:3 NKJV]