You had a bad day?

Bad days are inevitable.  So what you do you about it?  Here are four principles to help you weather the storms of life.

First, expect them.  Don't assume that bad days are just for bad people.  They are for all people.  Jesus said, "You will have suffering in this world.... (Jn 16:33)."  If you expect bad days as a normal part of life then you will better prepare for them and not be shocked when they come.

There are three events in your life that are guaranteed to lead to bad days:  1) The death or desertion of a loved one.  Expect it take at least six months to a year to get over the death of someone close.  2) A devastating loss -- losing your job, a friend moves a way, something important gets destroyed or stolen.  3) After an exhilarating victory.  The high of success doesn't last long, and it is often followed discouragement and depression.

Second, refresh yourself physically.  You will be much better able to handle bad days if you are well rested and well nourished.  Even Jesus took time to rest in the middle of a storm (Mk 4:38).  Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is to go to bed.  You need 7-8 hours of sleep each night.  Depression can suppress hunger, which then makes you physically weaker and less equipped to handle challenges.  Be sure to continue to take in plenty of water and calories, even if you don't feel hungry.

Third, strengthen yourself spiritually.  God did not make you to endure bad days alone.  He created you to need Him.  When David was having on the worst days of his life, he "found strength in the LORD his God (1 Sam 30:6)."  When you are having a bad day, schedule some extended time to get alone with God; this is beyond your normal quiet time with God.  Use this time to pour out your heart to God in prayer, and to read God's word and be reminded of His promises, and to reflect in your journal.  If you aren't sure what to pray about, get a piece of payer and write down "My Worry List" at the top.  Then write down all of your worries and fears and frustrations, and use that as your prayer list.

Fourth, encourage yourself emotionally.  When we have a bad day, our tendency is to isolate ourselves and take some time off from church.  To get alone and throw a pity party.  But that's the last thing you should do.  Instead, you need to get together with some encouraging Christian friends, such as your small group at church.  Share your burdens with them and let them encourage you.  You were not made to thrive with only a relationship with God.  God ministers to us through His people (Heb 10:24-25).

(Inspired by "The Cure For Bad Days."  A sermon by Robert Jeffress.)