By Lisa Wilmore
Scripture: “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” (James 3:17-18 (NIV)
My Dear Friends, Grace and peace be unto you!
Suicide, depression, hopelessness, sadness, and despair are running rampant-even among believers. Perhaps you have found yourself in a place where you long for joy, where you need something or someone to bring peace to your heart. To make mention of, a few years ago, God placed a message on my heart, which I shared in an article titled “Sometimes the Encourager Needs Encouraging” (2018). In it, I wrote about those who continually pour into others while silently growing empty themselves.
What do you do when sadness and hopelessness begin to seep into your life? When the weight of the world wears so heavily on your shoulders that you begin to mirror the sorrow of those who do not have hope? Where do you turn when your soul is troubled? To whom do you run?
Let me offer you this encouragement: You can find hope in the Word of God. When life is confusing and direction feels uncertain, remember the words of the Psalmist: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 (NIV). God will lead and guide you-if you lean on Him, depend on Him, and trust Him with your whole heart.
Many of us have allowed life’s busyness to steal time that belongs to God. And when our time in His Word is rushed or neglected altogether, our minds become clouded, restless, and anxious. Oftentimes, we begin to search in other places for the peace and clarity that only God can provide.
Dear hearts, spare yourselves the heartache of trying to navigate life’s storms without God’s Word. James 3:17-18 reminds us that wisdom from above is not only pure but also peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. True wisdom and healing wisdom comes only from the throne of God.
When we dwell in His Word, wisdom will take root in our lives. Everything you need-peace, joy, strength, clarity, direction is found in the Word of God. Yes, counselors, therapists, and other professionals have a place in our healing journey. They are valuable resources. But let us not forget that the ultimate source of healing and restoration is the Word of God.
Hope can be found in His Word. God’s holy, living, and life-changing Word which will change your conditions.
