Daily Gifts

I’ve spoken before about dealing with mental health issues, depression and anxiety. Many years ago, I was not able to function because of these. But thanks to my husband’s insistence I receive help, and because of the miracles God gives through medication, I was able to come out of that pit.

 

I still have trouble with mental health problems, sometimes more than others. But I wish I could more fully describe the difference from where I was before.

 

Many mornings I wake up feeling down, maybe from disturbing dreams, maybe just from happenings in our lives and in the world. But one gift I received long ago from my church in college was the suggestion to start every day with Bible reading and prayer. That has stuck with me for over forty years, and what a gift it is.

 

Most days, after I’ve spent time with Scripture and prayer, I am lifted up. Recently, I’ve been reading in Psalms, and I run across verses that I have learned through song. Some days, God’s Spirit reminds me of other praise songs. These are simple daily gifts that I will always be grateful for.

 

I’m not claiming that some days aren’t worse than others, but I do praise God for the gifts he’s given me, that he daily gives me, to bring me to health.

 

Psalms 40:1-2:

I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along.

 

John 14: 25-26:

 “All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.