Are you SAD? A Way to Hope

This is the time of year I sit under LED lights. Three to be exact. One in my bathroom. Two over my study/reading chair in my office. Each light has different buttons of time and intensity.

It’s been scientifically proven that sitting under LED lights help with Seasonal Affective Disorder—a type of depression related to the darkness of the winter season.

With Covid, lockdowns, quarantines, and the weight of the holidays, we can also experience Spiritual Affective Disorder—a deep loneliness and despair with no relief in sight.

S.A.D.

When SAD, where might we go for help? For light? For hope?

The Psalmist points the way: “The unfolding of your words gives light…” (Psalm 119:130); and “in His word I hope” (Psalm 130:5).

We go to God’s word. Where in God’s word might we specifically go when sad?

Many places. One of my favorites is Psalm 43. [Take a moment to read this passage].

In Psalm 43 we find an LED light of God’s hope. This light has many buttons to light our way, and our hearts. The first is this:

Entrust yourself to the Lord in your circumstances.

God, why?

In Psalm 43, the psalmist is overwhelmed, trapped, and in despair. He’s being unjustly accused; wronged by people who hide it through deceit.

Are you experiencing circumstances that feel despairing? Overwhelming? Unjust? Wrong? Dark? Lonely?

Four times in five verses the psalmist cries: “God, why?” (Psalm 43:2, 5). He doesn’t ask why. He asks God why. He prays. He cries out to God.

He specifically pleads: “Rescue me!” (Psalm 43:1).

When there’s no-where to turn, no relief in sight, pour out your heart to God. Plead what you would have Him do in your situation. Be specific.

Then trust His timing. His ways. His invisible yet infinite purpose for you.

It won’t be easy.

Rollercoaster

At first, the Psalmist declares: “You are God my stronghold” (Psalm 43:2). Then in the same breath he despairs: “Why have you rejected me?” (Psalm 43:2b).

That’s the way of being sad. It’s an emotional rollercoaster.

One minute, confident. The next, flailing.

You know, this wouldn’t be a problem if you didn’t have a relationship with God. Right? Therein lies the pain. Why would God cause or allow this?

But therein lies the glory! In a relationship with God, nothing is wasted or without purpose in your life. All is for His glory, your good, and other’s joy.

Your greatest need

Come to think of it, your greatest need is not relief from your circumstances. Your greatest need is Christ Himself in your circumstances.

Are you S.A.D.?

Jesus comes to you in a manger.

Jesus suffers with you on the cross.

Jesus walks with you through His Spirit.

Trust Him, child.