As I watched the news this morning they announced that today is the most depressing day of the year. I didn’t know that, but I know a lot of people are depressed. You see, there comes a time in all our lives when find ourselves feeling empty, lost, and wondering if it’s really worth it all. It’s as if God has turned His back on us or that He doesn’t care. It’s times like these that most people give up. It’s times like these that some would go get drunk, take drugs or lose themselves in some type of temporary pleasure to mask the necessity of facing their problems or life challenges. If you feel like this, you should “count it all joy!” No, I’m not being facetious. I realize there are times you are going to feel low or maybe even depressed. Those are the times in life when you need to dig in and face the demons head on. It is only when you feel this low that you will be able to feel the elation of the Holy Spirit lifting you up and taking you out of the darkness.

Before we go any further, I want you to know that even the best of the best (Christians) have these moments. When I think of today’s spiritual heroes, Billy Graham and Mother Theresa stand out. Listen to three quotes from Mother Theresa: (1) “I want God with all the power of my soul—and yet between us there is terrible separation.” (2) “Heaven from every side is closed.” (3) “I feel just that terrible pain of loss, of God not wanting me, of God not being God, of God not really existing.” She understood what you are feeling or have felt. You all are no different than other high profile believers like John the Baptist and Martin Luther. Did you know that ONLY BELIEVERS CAN DOUBT! If you did not have Christ there would be no hope for Satan to make you question. With Christ there is eternity and all that you face right now will pass away, which you will only remember as one of those refining moments.

Now, back to my previous point – “Count it all joy!” You are, only now, in a position where God can work mightily in your life – you just need a formula for healing. Let me ask you this: “What do most animals do if they are sick?” Answer – they quit eating. We’ve done the opposite, by either over eating or overindulging. Your formula for success is fasting and prayer. First, Christ said in Matthew 6:16-18 to fast quietly and discreetly so the Father will hear and reward you. Second, in Mark 9:29 Christ said that the hardest things to get done require prayer and fasting. And, third, an early church father, Hermas, said this in 150 AD: “Every prayer should be accompanied with humility. Fast, therefore, and you will obtain from the Lord what you plead for.” If you want your life to change and you want the depression lifted, fast and pray. God pays particular attention to a contrite heart willing to sacrifice their daily bread. Go into your fast with an agenda! Water and prayer is all you need (if your body can handle it).

Kids, I want you to know that this was, at times, the only way I could learn what I so desperately needed. It may take more than one time, however, your answers will come. Go into the process with the attitude that “God, I am deaf and blind, please make it so obvious that even I can see and hear your message.” He will not let you down. He will lift you on the wings of eagles to heights you have never been before if you will just ask Him. A little sacrifice reaps joy and the hope of eternal rewards.

Love Dad