Deuteronomy 28:64-66 NIV 

“Then the LORD will scatter you among all nations, from one end of the earth to the other. There you will worship other gods—gods of wood and stone, which neither you nor your fathers have known. Among those nations you will find no repose, no resting place for the sole of your foot. There the LORD will give you an anxious mind, eyes weary with longing, and a despairing heart. You will live in constant suspense, filled with dread both night and day, never sure of your life.” 

Last week in our “Heart” study we looked at a despairing or trembling heart.  This week I want to share with you some ideas on how to overcome a despairing heart should you find your heart in such a state. 

An antidote is defined as a medicine or other remedy for counteracting the effects of poison, disease, etc.  The following are my suggestions for doing just that. 

1.      Stay in the Word.

Joshua 1:8 NIV

“Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” 

The God of Genesis is the same as the God of Revelations!  He knows, He reigns, and He loves.  I personally have had my eyes opened to the fact or realization and understanding of whom God is.  He is God the Father of all scripture.  Reading scripture and having Him open my eyes to Him and His ways throughout scriptures gives me a clear view of the depth of His love.  So, when you find your heart in despair, draw close to Him and He will draw near to you.  His Word is alive (Hebrews 4:12). 

2.      Take every thought captive.  

2 Corinthians 10:5 NIV

“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” 

A complete series of books could be and probably have been written on the power of one’s thoughts.  I know a despairing heart can contribute to wayward thoughts, and this ultimately leads to additional wayward thoughts.  Man is not stupid.  We know when we are entertaining thoughts that are not what they should be.  Realize it, and then align your thoughts back with the Word. 

3.      Finally, and I can not stress this enough, find yourself one or two Godly individuals of integrity that you can go to and confess, talk, laugh and cry.  I have two such men in my life, Ryan and Brad.  For that, I am so very thankful.  They know me inside and out.  I honestly believe many a man chooses to remain in self-inflicted captivity because they refuse to humble themselves before others and be real.  That is often tied directly to them not having those one or two confidants to which they can turn in all seasons of life.    

In conclusion, we have taken a quick look at a despairing heart, learned some of the causes and cures.  My desire is that you will be aware and with that awareness be prepared so that you will guard and protect your heart.   

Join me praising God for and praying for the following.

1. Huge praise!  The PHM 2009 Board of Directors met this week.  The meal, fellowship and meeting were all enjoyable.  Thank you board members for your honest guidance and direction!  Thank you for pushing us, challenging us, stretching us as individuals and as leaders of PureHeart Ministry.

2.  Pray for Brad, Ryan and me as we work together to accomplish the recommendations and path forward from the meeting.

3.  Pray for the men who are partnered with PHM.  Pray for them as they continue down this road to complete freedom in Christ.

4.  Pray for ministry opportunities to share the heart and soul of PureHeart with others who might be interested. 

5.  Praise God for His unfailing love, grace and mercy.   

Sharing from the HeartSteve