Trouble, Hope and Praise 

Trouble often brings depression. We pity ourselves. We ask, "Why me,
Lord?" Kids are especially prone to pity parties. So are adults. Psalm
43:5 gives us a solution. "Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why
are you disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him,
the help of my countenance, and my God."

First, being disturbed, getting down, and being troubled are real
experiences. We should never put down people who go through such times
of depression. Second, we should recognize God is the answer to our
troubles and depression. We should not look at ourselves and engage in
self-pity. Instead, we should hope in God. Third, the hope mentioned in
the Psalm is not some vague euphoric feeling about the future. We have
this nebulous hope when we hope tomorrow will go well. Rather, the hope
mentioned here is a gift of the Holy Spirit. It is a solid foundation
upon which to build our present lives. Fourth, since hope is a gift from
God, it must be used. It must be exercised. We exercise hope when we
turn to God and offer Him praise and thanksgiving. Finally and fifth,
guess what? Praise and thanksgiving put a glow on our faces. Inner hope
is turned to outward joy. We move from the pits to the pinnacle.