Mental Health Sunday Devotional - Day 2

YOU ARE NOT ALONE

SCRIPTURE READING: PSALM 23:1-4

One of the most common tendencies we have as humans (and one of the most dangerous) is to assume we are alone in our struggles. This is especially true in regard to mental health.

We observe others, whether it's the smiles we see on Sunday, the pleasant small talk throughout the week, or the highlight reels on social media. But we're often observing the surface-level emotions in others while feeling the depth of our own emotions. And it can feel lonely.

But it's important to note you are not alone in the emotions you feel.

In fact, God created you with emotions, and Jesus Himself experienced a wide range of emotions. Throughout Scripture, we read about when Jesus was angry, grieved, joyful, confident, tired, desperate, and overwhelmed.

If you're looking for others who experienced a wide range of emotions, simply turn to the Psalms! Each page is filled with many of David's cyclical emotions-anger, fear, pleading, relief, remorse, joy, gratitude, etc. In today's reading, Psalm 23:1-4, David gives us seven descriptors of God, culminating to the certain reality that he is not alone.

-THE LORD IS MY SHEPHERD

The Israelites would have been well-acquainted with this imagery.

Sheep relied fully on the provision, protection, and guidance of their shepherd. Likewise, David realizes he lacks nothing because the LORD is his good shepherd, watching over him and protecting him.

-HIS ROD AND HIS STAFF COMFORT ME.

Circling back to shepherd imagery, David finds comfort in the protection of his Good Shepherd, the LORD.

As you soak in this Psalm today, be reminded that you are not alone.

The thoughts you think, the healing that needs to take place, and the emotions you feel cannot disqualify you from resting in the truth of Jesus as your Good Shepherd, too.

Why would David take the time to add these seven reminders of God's care for us if he himself wasn't feeling the same doubts, fears, anxieties, or other emotions we feel today? Perhaps he was preaching to himself too.

Don't let the Enemy trap you in his lies. You are not alone. Find comfort in the Good Shepherd today. He is inviting you into His

presence.