There are days when our hearts grow cold, when our flesh feels weak, and when discouragement presses in. The psalmist in Psalm 43 knew this reality well—mourning under the weight of oppression, the Psalmist petitions the Lord in verses 3 & 4:

Send out your light and your truth;

let them lead me;

let them bring me to your holy hill

and to your dwelling!

Then I will go to the altar of God,

to God my exceeding joy,

and I will praise you with the lyre,

O God, my God.

When discouragement rises, remember:

• The Son's body was broken for us.

• The Father’s love declares we belong to Him.

• Jesus’ intercession continues even now.

Remembering a life defined as Jesus lived is the pattern for our life. “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”  We are defined not by disappointments, losses or our weakness but by Christ’s life within us. His sacrifice, His approval, and His constant intercession give us a foundation that cannot be shaken.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You that my life is defined not by my feelings and my negative experiences, but by Your life in me. When my heart grows cold or my spirit feels heavy, send out Your light and truth to lead me back to You. Help me to remember Your sacrifice, Your approval, and Your intercession. Please send me Your Joy, as long as I have breath, let me use it to praise You. Amen.