Psalms 40:4-5; 9-10 NIV — Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods. Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare.

I proclaim your saving acts in the great assembly; I do not seal my lips, Lord, as you know. I do not hide your righteousness in my heart; I speak of your faithfulness and your saving help. I do not conceal your love and your faithfulness from the great assembly.

Over the years I have found that the most immediate way to turn my attitude around is to focus on gratitude. As I have shared before, I start each day with writing down five blessings for which I am thankful. When I recently found myself digging out of a dark pit, I realized I had not been consistent with writing down my gratitudes every day. Once again, the distractions that had pulled me away from my usual morning devotion time had also diverted my attention from my daily gratitude practice. Once I realized what I had allowed to happen, I refocused and restarted my routine. This practice always lifts my spirits and brightens my attitude. 

My experience of digging out of darkness: 

Step 1: Cry out to God and read the Bible

Step 2: Connect and share with others

Step 3: Daily gratitude practice

Let’s pray. Dear God, thank You for each and every blessing. May I always proclaim Your mercy and goodness to those around me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

If you feel that you are struggling with depression, you don’t have to struggle alone. You can call The National Mental Health Hotline at 866-903-3787 to speak to a professional about depression and get help with mental health resources.