Discouragement as a Christian

Have you ever found yourself sad or feeling like you lost your fight? Maybe you went through a breakup, a miscarriage, or financial hardship. Maybe you were just getting on your feet after 2020 economic fallout, and then 2022 hits. The economy flips, rates double,  and now you find yourself struggling to buy groceries for your family. In an instant, it feels like you went from being able to save and make financial plans for your future to struggling and barely getting by. This can be discouraging.

Is this your story? No. Maybe you’re the mom who is struggling to find her purpose. You’ve given the last 5 years of life pouring everything into your small children, and now you are wondering ‘Is there more?’ or ‘What is my purpose?’

Can you relate to any of these examples? If so, then you’re not alone. I secretly battled discouragement and feelings of depression most of last year. I couldn’t get out of a dark place. I put on a smile while in public, but my thoughts were mostly negative and filled with anxiety.

I have small children, ,and I went back into the workforce last year after graduating from school. I put my kids in the best schools and daycare my husband and I could afford, and I was optimistic about my new job and making some good money. Well, as soon as I got into the new career, the bottom fell out. No, seriously!! Literally, the month I got into my new career (mortgage), rates started to increase and increase and INCREASE! They literally doubled within months of me starting my new job. Talk about discouraging!

My feelings of optimism quickly turned in discouragement as my career became more challenging. This mixed with a serious case of mom guilt left me staying up at night wondering if I made the right decision. I prayed over it, yet it seemed like life was crushing me. Our little minimalistic, cushy life which allowed us to pay off debt, save, and financially plan was becoming harder by the day.

Here are some ways that I cope:

Spend time with Jesus

Studying the Word of God has been the best form of self care. While studying my Bible, I came across Elijah, a major prophet who called down fire from heaven. Talk about powerful man of God! But, he struggled with depression. Sometimes life can get complicated, and you get tired of fighting. This was Elijah. While he struggled mentally, I noticed that God did not condemn him. In fact, God sent an angel to comfort him, to feed him, and to encourage him to go to sleep.

“Sometimes when life gets too heavy, the best form of self care is to simply go to sleep.”

Yours truly. 🙂

Although I struggled with my own mental health, I could feel the hand of God comforting with so much love and grace. Instead of feeling like I’ll be punished for “not being strong and courageous”, I felt God strengthening me with so much grace and love. Spending time with Jesus has helped me so much mentally. The Word of God tells me “that my steps are ordered by the Lord” (Psalms 37:23), and that “All things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28). So be encouraged, God is ordering your steps.

Exercise

Whenever you feel discouraged or depressed, exercise may seem like the last thing you want to do. Peeling myself out of my bed and moving my body has been therapeutic for me. Research shows that exercise releases feel-good endorphins and takes your mind off your worries. (See article here). Additionally, exercise is a healthy way to cope with negative thoughts instead of drinking or wishing it will go away.

Exercising a few times a week has been a game changer for my mental health. I attend fitness classes, which increases my social interaction. Plus, I’m starting to see results y’all!! 🙂

Find a Creative Outlet

I love dancing, spending time with my family, and making videos on social media. To some, it may seem silly, but I actually enjoy it. Plus, it’s good for my mental health. It’s something that I have control over. I’m not at the mercy of anyone else or the economy. It’s mine, and I can be as creative as I want. If only I can find a way to monetize it more. lol Let me now if y’all have any ideas, ok? My little social space has allowed me to freedom to focus on things that bring me joy and to smile more!

Thank God for What You Already Have

Gratitude is one of the best ways to switch your mindset. We can get caught up in what we don’t have, but choosing to focus on what you currently do have is powerful. It switches your focus and encourages contentment. The Bible teaches us to “give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Complaining acknowledges your circumstances, but it does not change them. I am learning the significance of gratitude now that I am a parent. Whenever our children are frustrated and constantly complain, we might get a little angry! (This might apply to all the gentle parents out there.) It makes me less generous with my giving. But when our children are grateful and have a good attitude, we will go out of our way to do something kind them. Can you relate?

“Complaining acknowledges your circumstances, but it does not change it. So, you might as well find something to smile about.”

You’re truly! 🙂

Remember who is Counting on You

For me, it’s my kids. I like my husband too (most days)! lol Our families need us to show up as our best selves. The mom who feels frustrated and depressed is likely irritable and cranky. Our children need us to be kind, loving, peacekeepers, and sources of nurture and encouragement. This is what our families deserve. So, it is important that we take care of ourselves so that we can show up best for them.

Keep Fighting

If the enemy is wearing you out mentally, be encouraged! If he can’t stop you, he will remind you of all your mistakes, try to distract you, or even worse discourage you to the point of depression. But take heart! We’re getting our fight back this year! We are getting our hope back! And we will move in the direction that God calls us without fear. I hope you don’t give up on you!

With lots of love,

Deean