I Wish I Had Never Been Born
It can strike at any moment, and even the strongest of believers are not immune. Everything is rocking along fine, and then — bam. Something happens, and suddenly your whole world gets turned upside down.
Most of us can deal with the minor annoyances and inconveniences of life and keep our bearings. But when major, life-changing events happen — a death in the family, a serious illness, a complete reversal of our financial situation — our lives can begin to spin perilously out of control. And often, as Job experienced, calamity strikes a multi-faceted blow: A divorce that also decimates our social network of friends and extended family; or a medical diagnosis that not only strikes at the core of our health and wellness, but threatens our financial security as well. When we get blindsided like that, we often fall victim to the same type of thinking that gripped Job. You remember how he put it, right?
I wish I had never been born. (Job 3:1–3)
I wish I had died at birth. (Job 3:11)
I wish I could die now. (Job 3:20–22)
When despair settles over our soul like a cold, damp fog, it’s tempting to want to simply give up. We begin to think things will never change, that this current situation we’re facing is our new lot in life. Like Job, we completely lose our perspective, allowing our current circumstances to lead us down a path of despondency and utter discouragement.
If you wait until you’re in the grip of a crisis, you run the very real risk of falling into Job- think, where despair takes root and multiplies. But there’s a better alternative. Before you find yourself in the throes of discouragement, begin a daily regimen that will help you navigate through when a crisis hits. Specifically:
# • Memorize Scripture. Hiding God’s Word in your heart will give the Holy Spirit the ammunition you need for the dark days ahead — and also enrich your prayer life.
# • Watch what, and who, you listen to. Fill your mind with positive, godly thoughts and messages. Walk away from negativity, in all of its forms.
# • Build healthy relationships. Invest in friendships that will help you through the difficult times — and be that kind of friend yourself.
# • Maintain physical exercise. Keeping your body active and fit is one of the best ways to stave off the depression that accompanies difficult circumstances.
# • Remember that God is sovereign. Nothing you’ll ever face is a surprise to Him. He’s promised to walk with you through every difficulty. Take Him at His word.
Like the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. And, as an added benefit — you’ll find that you still get to enjoy your birthday!
