Feeling down and out sometimes accompanies a Christian’s spirit when dealing with defeat or hard times knocking at the door.

We look for ways out instead of seeking answers through prayer or guidance. Fixing things our own way seems to be what we lean towards, but when there’s no remedy in sight, we are tempted to throw in the towel. We forget the songs of praises that were on our lips at the pew on Sunday. We leave behind Scriptural promises we read in the early morning hours. Hope seems to be flung out the window. Downcast spirits are all that are left.

So many times we think we are islands, the only ones going through troubles. Spiritual attacks seem on the rise while those around us seem ever so joyful and unapproachable to seek counsel. Where do we go, what do we do and how do we plead our case any more than we already have? The Lord seems to have deaf ears and our friends seem too locked in their own lives to be bothered. Our islands seem to close in and we feel despair.

So many times we think we are islands, the only ones going through troubles.

It’s so hard to feel hopeful and sing praises right when we are in the thick of it. We want to yell, run, and point fingers just so that we feel better. We are given advice all day long, and even try to build ourselves up through Biblical promises and hopeful sermons. We feel that we are trying so much and it just doesn’t matter.

This is when we need to stop and remember how we have gotten through times trials in the past. How many times did we endure? What have we learned? Where did our hope and strength come from when we are at our weakest? Yes, from the Lord. All good and perfect help comes from Him no matter how much we fight against it or make excuses.

We need to magnify the Lord in all things.

I know some say it’s easier said than done. I agree with this sentiment, but I have also learned that we still need to hold on and praise Him through any storm, big or small. Sometimes it’s the only thing that keeps us going.

Luke 1: 46-55 ESV

 And Mary said,