-------------- Original message --------------
From: Jeremy Gilley <[log in to unmask]>

> 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 mentio ned 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.
>