The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

THE DOWNCAST SOUL

Feelings of sadness and discouragement are inevitable. This life has times of dancing and praising, but also times of deep anguish and despair. The psalmist cried out to God, declaring his downcast soul. Jesus understands. In Luke 22, preceding his impending crucifixion, Jesus cried out to his Father, “ ‘Take this cup from me’ . . . And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground” (Lk 22:42, 44). This passage shows Jesus’ very real and deep despair. However, in the midst of crying out to God, he declared his longing for the Father’s will to be accomplished, not his own. In the same way, God hears and answers prayer, even when it may seem he has forgotten his people. And because God the Son left his throne in heaven to walk the earth in human flesh, he knows and understands the human experience on every level — physical, spiritual and emotional. Therefore, God’s people can confidently praise him and put their hope in him (Ps 42:11), knowing that one day, through Jesus’ costly sacrifice, they will experience anew the presence of God and his goodness.

Jesus, you know how difficult and how painful this life can be. When I am discouraged, please comfort me with your love and remind me of what’s important: my future with you. Amen.