Mourning Into Dancing

"You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy," Psalm 30:11


Have you ever found a way to turn sadness into joy? It's tough, isn't it. The bible tells us that we do have a reason to rejoice, even in our sadness. But how do we do that?


1. Realizing suffering can be a good thing.
Back in the fall my mentor taught me that if we never suffered, we would have a reason to worry. (James 1: 1-2) This is because suffering makes us stronger and as we see in scripture, God allows his children to suffer so they can fulfill his great plan for their lives! 


2. Realizing you have people there for you.
God created the church not just so we could learn about Him, but so we could encourage one another and build each other up. The body of Christ wants to lift you up in your time of mourning. Go to fellow believers and open up about what is going on in your life and there will be much blessing.


3. Realizing Pray is your greatest weapon
Fighting times of sadness, depression, loneliness, hurt, betrayal, or loss can be almost near impossible without prayer. It is vital we go to God before anyone else. As one of my leaders in the church would say, "Go to the throne before the phone." Sharing your feelings with fellow Christians is important, but going to God first is most important. I find in the times I am most down, kneeling down to pray for at least five minutes, automatically lifts up my spirit and I find reason to rejoice in my King. He is so faithful to hear our prayers. (1 John 5: 14-15)


Remember, If you can rejoice in times of mourning, think of the great witness you could be!