Dealing with Sadness

There are many occasions when even devout Christians face times of real sadness. Tragedy comes to the door, or to the family, or there are battles with discouragement, personal grief or depression. During those times, we need to ask two important questions:  What is God doing during those times in my life? and What should I do when in such circumstances?

What is God doing when I am sad? 

He grieves with us: John 11:35; Romans 12:15

He prays for us: Romans 8:26; Hebrews 7:25

He observes our reactions: Deuteronomy 8:2; Genesis 4:7

He carries us through: Ecclesiastes 4:9-10; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10


What should we do when we are sad? 

Take our time: Genesis 37:34-35; Matthew 14:13 

Worship and trust God: Job 1:20-22; 2 Samuel 12:19-20

Behave righteously: Matthew 5:38-48; 1 Peter 2:23 

Learn contentment: Philippians 4:12; 1 Timothy 6:6-8

God's healing

Wonderfully, God promises to heal those who are broken hearted and sad:

“The LORD is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit”  Psalm 34:18

“He has sent me (Jesus) to bind up the broken hearted”  Isaiah 61:1
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