Have you ever been so discouraged that you just wanted to stay in bed and pull the covers up over your head? Maybe that’s where you are right now.
I felt that way last Christmas when my son and daughter-in-law didn’t make it to our house for our much longed for, much planned for holiday visit. A snow storm canceled their flight and it was too dangerous to drive. I didn’t handle it very well. I wanted to go to bed and cry until the holidays were over.
I’ve hidden under the covers a time or two. OK, well maybe more than two.
There’s a story in the Bible that helps me when I feel mopey.
A few years after the Israelites made it to the Promised Land, they grew tired of being ruled by God through the prophets. They wanted to have a king like all the other nations.
Samuel was the ruling prophet at the time, and he told the people all the reasons having a king was a bad idea. They persisted in their demands, and eventually God allowed them to choose a king. “They are not rejecting you,” God assured Samuel. “They are rejecting Me.”
The people picked a man named Saul because he was tall, dark, and handsome. I’m not kidding. It’s right there in black and white (1 Samuel 9:2). Saul reluctantly accepted the kingship, was anointed by the Holy Spirit, and totally depended on God for his new position.
But after a while, Saul decided being a king wasn’t so hard after all. He disobeyed and dishonored God by taking matters into his own hands. (Never a good idea, I might add). As a result, God snatched away Saul’s kingship and removed his anointing.
Samuel was so discouraged over Saul’s failure that he went to bed and pulled the covers up over his head. He was disappointed in Saul and felt sorry for himself.
Now this is important. If I were sitting right there with you, I’d stand up in a chair and read this out loud. Here we go. One day God said, “How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel” (1 Samuel 16:1 NIV).
I love Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase: “So, how long are you going to mope over Saul?” (MSG)
Mope? Yep. That’s a good word.
God asks you and me the same question: How long will you mope because life hasn’t turned out like you thought it would.
I don’t mean to make little of any of the painful or discouraging situations in your life. I’ve had them too.
But here’s what I know today: No matter how painful or discouraging the circumstances of life may be, God never intends for you to get stuck there. You should never put a period where God puts a comma.
There’s always more of your story to be written. When you loosen the string holding the binding of your book tightly shut and give God a free hand to continue the narrative of your life, things which the eye has not seen, and the ear has not heard, and have not entered the mind of man will be yours (1 Corinthians 2:9).
God goes on to say to Samuel: “Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king” (1 Samuel 16:1, emphasis added).
At some point in our moping about, God comes to us and says, “Enough already. Get up. Get going. Be on your way. I’ve got something for you to do. Your life is not over. The story has more chapters to be written. Let go of your discouragement and take hold of the next adventure I have planned for you.”
Samuel was terrified, but God assured him: I will show you what to do” (1 Samuel 16:2–3, emphasis added).
I will show you what to do. And that’s all God expects of me and of you—take the first step of obedience. Get up and get going. He will take care of the rest.
I love the next sentence in the story: “Samuel did what God told him” (1 Samuel 16:4).
Ah, the key to experiencing the adventurous life of a thriving faith…the faith we’ve always longed for.
Lord, I’ll admit, sometimes I mope. When things don’t turn out like I want them to, I put on my long face, slump my shoulders, and drag my feet. Nobody wants to be around me when I’m like that. I don’t even like to be around me when I’m like that. Today, I am making a decision to not be a moper. When life doesn’t turn out like I hoped it would, I will see it as Your provision or protection. I trust in Your sovereignty for my life, even when I don’t understand. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
What is one thing God is calling you to stop moping about today? Click comment and let’s be real and honest with our sisters.
Digging Deeper
Today’s devotion came from my book, Take Hold of the Faith You Long For: Let Go, Move Forward, Live Bold. It’s all about how to get unstuck in your faith and move forward. Learn how to let go of all that holds you hostage to a “less than” life, and take hold of all that Jesus has done for you and placed in you…the faith you’ve always longed for. The book also comes with a Bible study guide.
Have you gotten your copy of Praying for Your Child from Head to Toe yet? Mammas and Grandmas everywhere are loving it!
© 2023 by Sharon Jaynes. All rights reserved.
Comments 96
I needed this today! I am mopey because a new job doesn’t seem to be on the table for me. I had a great phone interview and a promise of schedule meeting yesterday and I never heard or got a response from the hiring manager. I am trying to let go.. it will happen when the timing is better. I know that’s God’s voice; it’s letting the critic KNOW it will be as He has planned not as I WANT!
I don’t see how I can ‘get over’ my
diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis 38 years ago. Slowly I would lose abilities that I once had, all the while trusting the Lord for my healing. Now that I am in my 60’s, I can only see myself dying with the disease. Should I ‘get over’ this?
Oh my Sister. I can only imagine how difficult this is for you. No, getting over it is not the answer, I don’t believe. But trusting God through it is the answer. Asking God every step of the way to help you trust that He is in control and sees you. We won’t understand everything in this life and we don’t know the future and what it holds. But He who holds the future holds our hand. My 22 year old son has MD. Some days caring for him proves to be difficult. But I trust God to strengthen me through this journey each and every day. Keep leaning on God my sister trusting Him to give you the answers needed. You’ll be in my prayers. May God bless, keep and comfort you. He is in control.
Dear Edelta, God has answered you. You were diagnosed 38 years ago and you are in your 60’s now. God has given you many years. I pray that you have wonderful memories throughout those years.
God Bless.
Denise
I totally understand but do not exactly know how to ‘get over’ debilitating illness. I have Myasthenia Gravis and I am thankful for everything that I haven’t lost, but very much miss what I have. I love the Lord and pray for peace and contentment and of course healing. I will pray for you too.
Praise our sweet Abba! HE has sustained you all these years!
The GOD of all impossibilities
has you in the Palm of HIS HAND.
Abba sees you, sis..
I can totally relate with you. I’m in that season myself. God makes everything beautiful in its time, and our time will eventally come and it will exceed our expectations. Keeping trusting God sis.
I can totally relate to you, Lily. I’m in that season myself. God makes everything beautiful in its time. Our time will eventally come and it will exceed our expectations. Keep trusting God sis.
I’m exactly the same position, so close yet so far. I am so ready for the next chapter and moving forward in my career but it’s not happening and the moping is paragliding me. And its effecting other areas in my life.
I stepped out on faith for a new job. Nothing has come. I need to allow God to choose foe me this time.
Read this in my inbox as I crawled back in my bed with my morning coffee. I’ve been praying for days for God to speak to me and remind me of His goodness. This post and truth was exactly what my heart needed. My husband and I have been on a long journey of infertility and after our 5th iui failure I’ve started to feel hopeless. This post is exactly what I needed in just the right time. Thank you Lord for seeing me and using you, Sharon, to remind me of His faithfulness.
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Catherine. I’m so sorry. I went through years of infertility treatment myself. I remember it being like a little death each month. It is not an easy journey. But God does have a perfect plan, whether it is our plan or not.
My daughter AND my son-in-law (Let’s not forget them!) also went through infertility heartaches. Both dreamed of having many children to fill their new and forever home. Three years and multiple ivf treatments following the birth of their son they were unable to conceive again.
Over the nearly seventeen years it’s been so hard not to ask, “Why?”, stomp our feet andcry, “ It’s just not fair”!
Those times require faith’s kicking in to remind us that someday we’ WILL have all the answers and see clearly that His plan has ALWAYS been perfect!
Oh Catherine, I am praying 🙏 for your seemingly, hopeless situation, that God hears all of our prayers for your motherhood. Thank you Lord. AMEN
Catherine
I feel your pain. It was 45 yrs that I was there, wanting nothing more than to be a mom. I had a miscarriage, followed br 5 yrs of infertility. Yes, God had a plan in place but my mind wouldn’t go there. I then got the opportunity to adopt a baby, and then 2 and 5 yrs later, I gave birth. So many miracles come in so many ways from God is his perfect timing. Sending love and prayers for you and your amazing future from God.
I’ve been retired 16 months. Had numerous health issues come my way. Heart Dr has tried two different Statins on me which have had terrible side effects on my body. My grandchildren are beginning to outgrow me so to speak. I’ve been moping. Thinking my life is pretty worthless. I’m believing God to still use me somehow for the remaining years of my life.
I’m retired too. So lonely as husband is gone now too. Sons are local and still speaking to me, but not the grandhildren, (sophomore and 10 y.o.
WOW! I took care of them always. 4years plus. Very hurtful!!!! My husband and I treated them faithfully, equally, always!!!!!
Also thinking my life is pretty worthless. I pray to the Lord everyday,
This devotion is EXACTLY what I needed today. I lost my only granddaughter 4 months ago, my sister passed away 1 month ago and a year-in=the-making trip to Israel/Egypt/Turkey/Greece was disrupted by the current conflict in Israel. I am flying out today to plan and participate in a celebration of life for my sister and I’m still recovering from a horrendous flight home from Greece (we were on the Celebrity Apex and cruised to different Greek islands). I keep telling myself not to mope, I made it home safely, we saw Corinth and Ephesus, but the disappointment in what we didn’t see, my grief over losing 2 special women in my life has me “moping” more than relying on God’s grace to see me through. Your devotion has given me a wake-up call that was sorely needed so thank-you for posting this today (yesterday was 4 months for my granddaughter, tomorrow is 1 month for my sister’s passing – isn’t the timing of your devotion interesting – I’d say it’s a God-thing!
Pam, I feel your pain, and my heart hurts for you. I pray God will send the comforter for the great losses in your life. I have two sisters as well, and can’t imagine losing them. May God under gird you and heal your heart from this pain. G
This is such an encouraging and on-time word! Bless you, Sharon
I don’t know if it is moping or wallowing in self pity. My husband passed away last year in Feb and it just amazes me how friends act like you don’t exist anymore. I attend Grief Share weekly ( my 3rd 13 week class ) we have discussed this but now I find myself pulling away from making an effort to have lunch or reach out to anyone.
So sorry for your loss, sis. I pray God will restore what the locusts have eaten and give you friends that will uplift you and help you in your time of need. May God heal your heart and make you brand new, so that you can continue to be used by him, with the comfort that you receive, become a comforter. In Jesus name, I pray. G
Praying for you now, Susan! My friend, who lost her husband several years ago always says, “just do the next best thing.” Life can be overwhelming, especially as you walk in grief. Praying for comfort and encouragement for you today!
It’s certainly painful to deal with this level of loss, plus the loss of friendship. I am so sorry susan. I know this feeling and wanting to insulate and protect yourself from anymore people. You are a strong woman to be seeking the Lord through this season and He will bless your faithfulness. He has never and will never leave you! Seeking him with everything as we heal from loss or hurt is the very answer. Praying healing over your heart sister
Good Morning Sharon, Thank you so very much for this very insightful message. It truly spoke to how I have been feeling. At the beginning of October I was put on redeployment with my job. I will continue working through the end of November unless another opportunity arises. I have been feeling very down and out and discouraged. I am in my 60’s and must continue working. My Heavenly Father will continue to provide for me no matter the circumstances. Thank you for all that you do to encourage all of us. God Bless You! Kind Regards, Aimee
We sold our business in 2021 and my hereditary disease progressed after back surgery. The disease has affected my balance and speech so I retired earlier than expected. It’s been hard not to fall into a pity party.
Sharon, I wish more distinction could have been made between moping and depression. For a number of years I suffered from severe, crippling depression and paralyzing panic. I had been the sole caregiver for my mother 24/7 for 10+ years and it took a toll. I also survived childhood abuse, emotional abuse, and domestic abuse.
It has taken much work with the help of God to even see light in my tunnel. Sadly the hardest thing to deal with was the attitude of my fellow Christians that I should “just get over it.” Like I had a choice, I didn’t, no one would choose to live in the horror that was my depression and panic.
Even with the light, things are very difficult. I have no family left. Financially I’m barely hanging on, I have cancer and an autoimmune disease and no health insurance. I am working on everything in my life that I have power over. There are some things that only God has power over. My part is to learn how to best live with the thorns God has allowed to remain with me,
There are things in life that simply cannot be “gotten over.” They are ours to accept, to learn to live with and to learn the lessons. To grow through them and to use what you learned to help others get through their heartaches.
You are doing a great disservice to those who are suffering through things that they can’t just get over. Who are on a long journey of learning to live with limitations in a way that brings glory to God. Please don’t diminish the path others are struggling to walk. Even if a person’s path has been hard, they truly cannot know another’s pain or how they should respond. The world is full of Job”s Friends,
I cried for a long time after reading this article, it brought back so many times that I left church in tears bc I had been told I should just get over it. I had gone to church to worship my Father and to learn how to live with the unliveable. Instead I was made to feel a failure bc I couldn’t get over things that I was instead to accept.
There is a large difference in a lump in the breast and in a lump in the oatmeal and there are large differences in how we can respond to them as well.
I’ve subscribed to you for a long time. I’d like to think that I misunderstood. I’ve read some comments, it seems others feel as I do.
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Yes there is a difference between moping and diagnosed depression. I have struggled with both. I know pain…the loss of our second child, dad diagnosed with Alzheimer’s when he was 56 years old, loss of both parents when I was the only child available for caring for them,etc. We could all compare our struggles to see who comes out the worst. Pain is pain no matter what form it comes in. However, whether it is moping or diagnosed depression, getting better begins with a choice or a decision. For depression, the decision to go to the doctor, get on medication, and or a counselor to get help. I thank God for medication everyday! Actually my whole ministry is about helping women have a better story. One of my best friends, Mary Southerland, who has battled with clinical depression most of her adult life, has written a book you might like. By the way, she is one of the least mopey people I know…because she’s learned how not to be. Checkout her website. I also have a book, When You don’t Like Your Story that might be helpful.
Sandy,
I agree with you! I have been chronically ill for a year and a half, I can no longer work and I’m running out of money to live on. I have horrible side effects to every medication I’ve been prescribed. I am essentially bedridden. I have lost over 60 pounds in the last few months because there are very few things I can eat. Sometimes it’s a struggle to face another day. I am single, a senior citizen, and I don’t have any family left. I wish Christians had more compassion toward people who are chronically ill and don’t have a support system.
Praying for no more moping to not meeting a Christian man to share my life with. For patience in His timing.
Ina I am in a similar season. Just this morning I asked God what am I missing to cause such longing and pray for clarity. God bless you and I both as we learn and practice patience in divine timing.
Today and.for days I have been “moping” I am dealing with health issues from long covid on top of my everyday struggles with my 25 year autistic son with aspergers. I thought I was seeing the light at the end of the tunnel with a new doctor and recent tests have revealed issues with my heart which I see as a road block with the new treatment plan. I lost my daughter to cancer at the age of 8, my son has been a struggle, moved to an area where we are struggling finding a true Bible preaching church ( never mind add outsiders) and I am really feeling like God has turned his back on me. I struggle everyday to even smile. Don’t even know what it is like to laugh. anymore.
Cheryl,
You are in my prayers. I too have a 19 year old son with Aspergers and know your struggles. Do not give up on the Lord. He has great plans for you. I am not sure where you are living, but Bible Study Fellowship is international and has been a life saver for me. They even have online groups. Try them. BSFinternational.org
Good morning Sharon,
Thank you for your weekly devotion today – it speaks to me with loud quotation and surely touched my HEART,
My husband Jim passed away from this world and went to HEAVEN on September 15th, 2022 – worst day of my life, as Jim was my whole life – I TRULY believe God brought us together in HIS LOVE sixty-three years ago (three years courting – sixty years married) the LOVE OF MY LIFE – I think you have a rough idea of the rest of my story,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Thank you, Sharon for your sincerity and your LOVE of JESUS, it really pours through to me and I am sure to so many of your reader’s!
Hugs and Blessings,
Veronica.
My 28 year old son, Tim, has persistent and severe mental illness. He becomes manic and psychotic, literally loosing his sanity and is unable to think properly. These episodes have been happening yearly, and he usually has to be hospitalized. Tim is now disabled and has lived with my husband and I these past 7 years. It is devastating, heartbreaking and depressing. He has lost his faith, his plans and his dreams, and his life has been shattered by this horrific and evil illness.
Dearest sister. Please please don’t give up. I am a woman with Schizophrenia. My mind would totally clear by the grace and miracle of GOD. I had a heck of a tough father. He was tougher than the mental shattering . He and i would battle. (To put it mildly) ONE day. He roared at me. “I’m not giving up on you”. I think that was a true God moment. To make a crazy and long story much shorter. Life is sweet. I can’t begin to describe the difference before and after. I am truly blessed. There is always hope. I have since the time of my miracle. I have moved into my own home. (A very cute apartment). I have had multiple job offers. (Not ready yet for that). I have maintained a wonderful relationship with a man who is my best friend for the last 7 yrs. He thinks he loves me. Crazy me. He is my greatest encouragement to get a job. I am working on it. Yes there is joy now. My parents are finally at peace with my healing. They go on trips and have cruised the world. One time. that would have been impossible. I just had to write you. There is a grotto. In Lourdes France. Where my Dad was getting ready to fly me to. Just a shot in the dark. His faith was powerful. I never made it to France. My miracle happened prior to that plan. Just a note. Miracles happen when you pray. Never give up on prayer. Its powerful. Be patient in your tribulation with your son. Celebrate the sun. Its there in him. I hope your day is blessed. From a sister.
Hello Beatrice I will pray for your family. Please buy the book “The speaking blood of Jesus” by Daniel Okpara and pray it for your son and speak peace to his spirit. It helped me tremendously when the dr and specialist thought I had a disease that could cause blindness suddenly. I fed myself the lessons and proclaimed very often “the Body and Blood of Jesus covers every area of my existence”. My test results were all normal
My husband and I were pastoring a family church. We’ve been there for four years. We thought things were going great. GOD was moving, people were being saved and the church was growing. They decided that we weren’t reaching the “right people”. Recovering drug addicts, gang members, single moms, children. None that could add to the collection plate. They turned on us. Starting lying on us. And was hurting the new members. They were leaving as soon as we brought them in.
It got so bad, that we decided to leave back in July. We started a new Ministry in a store front called CPR ministries. We are desperately trying to grab those that we lost to come back.
But right now, I am in the bed. Crying. Hurt. The lies they are spreading are direct assaults on our character. It’s causing stress in my marriage. I’m tired.
It’s like… doing right gets stomped on. And the preachers that are taking advantage of the people and draining them dry financially gets the big breaks.
But… they didn’t reject me and my husband. They rejected GOD. I have to move on. GOD will give us the strength. I have to get up and try again.
Thank you Sharon. This has blessed me.
Please pray for us.
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Yes, get back up! Keep moving forward.
Lunita,
I am so sorry for your hurt and pain. Being hurt by churches is the worst pain there is! I understand your hurt as we have been turned on by christians we served with in church ministry. Just minister as you were in this new ministry and keep on for Jesus. I will pray for you, for comfort of the Lord, for peace in your heart, for God to give you joy in Him, and for a new friend to come alongside. This was a blessing to me even years after we experienced that pain. God is your refuge and strength and this life isn’t the judge, God is! Love to you sister in Christ.
Stuck in a post divorce life and having trouble finding the energy to move past the mourning of my past life and the dreams of my future life.
Andrea,
I “get” where you are right now. I’ve been there. After my divorce two years a go I was in a dark place mentally and emotionally and I was struggling spiritually. God has been my Rock through it all.
I will pray that God will put sisters in your life that will help you in, and through, your grief.
Remember that you are loved and charished by a Savior who died to set you free.
I will be praying for you!
I moved to Idaho to be near my Family especially my Mom cause my awesome step dad is resting until Jesus comes (died) . My Mom is very sweet and the doors always open but she sold her property and bought a tiny house and put it on my sister’s property and the first three months I couldn’t go over there not until I was totally clean ,I’ve struggled with drugs in the past but now have 5 months completely clean and sober and still she won’t let me spend the night at my Mom’s at first I was very mopey but I came to help not be a burden so I’m doing my best to stay positive knowing God has a perfect plan . I got a job at Amazon and am living in my motorhome burrr but trying my best to trust that God will work this out !
Satan is desperately trying to break our family up because his time is short .Please pray for my sister Shanda to see through God’s eyes and hopefully I can get my own property and move my mom’s tiny home on it so she can be free to live her last days as the sweet outgoing lady God created her to be . I’m so grateful for all God is doing in my life and am not going to get discouraged knowing God has a perfect plan
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I’m so proud of you. Keep taking the next step, and the next, and the next. One day at a time!
I lost my husband of 42 years to cancer 19 months ago. I feel
Like I’ve lost my purpose in life. I’m doing better than a year ago but still feel a little lost about what God wants me to do moving forward. I want to give back. There must be more than just visiting friends and family although I try to help all of them out as I can.
Our daughter soon to be 22 “ran” away from home on Friday. Leaving no communication line open. The words “not running away from you but from God” 🙌 let me see that God is in the midst of this and He will move what we her family can not move. This battle is not ours. Although it feels like it is. He will overcome. He has overcome! Thank you for the encouragement!!
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Yes He has! Praying she will let herself be caught quickly!
Rushing my relationship….
While I agree with most of it, I think it depends on the circumstances and what you’re “moping” about. For example, I think there’s a difference between “moping” about not getting a job and “moping” over losing a loved one. Grief takes time and the timeline for grief is different for everyone. I think this could sound very dismissive. Years ago, within just over a year timespan, I lost my best friend, my Grandma, my Dad and my Mom. My husband started physically abusing me, threatening to kill me. So, I took my daughters and went to a shelter. I had no family left. When my church family, who I loved with all my heart, found out I left my husband, not one asked me why I left. They all turned their backs on me. So, I lost not only everyone I loved, (except my daughters), I lost my friends, my church, my home, my source of income. As I struggled to make sense of it and tried to work through the complicated grief and trauma, Christians kept telling me to get over it and stop feeling sorry for myself. It did so much more damage to me. Because then, I just started feeling like a failure. More than anything, like I was failing God because I couldn’t just move on.
Jodi, my heart just HURTS for you! i’m so sorry your Christian friends have failed you so badly when you needed them most.
Sovereign Lord, please put something or someone in this sister’s life that reminds her that even if her flawed friends desert her, You never do. That in spite of all of the painful circumstances of her life, You have a plan for her good, not for her harm. That You see her. in Jesus’ name. amen.
a few years back, i was in circumstances where all of my dreams got trashed. i couldn’t see even a pinprick of light at the end of the long dark tunnel. but i stand here today and tell you that though my life isn’t anything like i thought it would be, it’s so much better! it did, however, take around ten long years for me to be able to say that. i hope this encourages you just a little.
Sharon, thank you. Your devotion today is spot-on. This year has been very hard. Lots of medical issues since January 2023. My Husband passed suddenly in March. More medical tests and God came through miraculously and showed a rotten gallbladder. Removed one week ago, feeling better, but I too have felt that my God has deserted me. Sometimes I have wanted to walk away. But where would I walk. I have such a great support system and no one has deserted me. But your devotion struck home. Thank you.
I didn’t know how to begin but i know I have been moping. My son father decided he no longer wanted to be a dad in my son life and he wanted to sign over his rights after my son lived with him for months. I have moved from job to job in hopes of a careers that’s suits me well. I am trying so hard. I enrolled in school back in june and now i am working to obtain my degree. I just feel like i can never get ahead. when i do i have to work so hard to maintain the little. The engine went out in my car months ago and life has been a challenge, one after the other. I’m praying for peace. Peace for all of us. Thank you Sharon for allowing us to read one another’s reply and get insight. Thank you for taking time to encourage us all. El Roi (God see us all) he will never fail us. Even when we are being brats he is there to give us peace and grace. I li e you all and Im praying we learned how to keep pushing today.
Thank you so much for this encouragement. I too was feeling “stuck” in my journey with Christ and allowing other things to distract. It affected even my marriage with my dear husband. God has assignments for me to do especially in these last days and I need to get back in the Word, listening to God’s voice for each new step. As I read everyone’s responses, my heart ❤️ breaks and I pray God meets you all in His perfect timing. Peace 🙏
thank u! i needed this 🙂 i need to stop moping about my husband not finding the right job. I know i need to let go and let GOD handle it. It aint gonna happen on MY time, it will happen on HIS time, his WILL for us !
Boy did I need this today. I have been struggling for some time with a domino effect of disappointments, mostly due to my husband’s LONG time chronic, and debilitating back pain. I won’t go into details, but I have prayed asking God to heal my husband for years and recently God has done miracle in his life through circumstances that led to neurosurgery that has healed him from the pain and he is working his way back to a much better quality of life in the future. You’d think I would be doing multiple happy dances (and I have done many), but I have found myself to be tired, and really angry about the “inconvenience” this has caused me for a long time. I am ashamed to say that my attitude has been selfish, and my “mood” has caused tension in my home to say the least. I have confessed my sin and asked God to help me to go forward with kindness, patience and love. I still trip over myself, but I am purposing daily to rest in the Lord and let him transform me into a more content person. Hope that makes sense.
This devotion is so timely. I’ve been moping about a few health challenges that has caused me to be over cautious and somewhat anxious to live! I’ve placed myself in a bubble/cage of my own making and definitely not what God desires of me. Today’s devotion spoke that I need to get out of the self inflicted cage and listening to the doubts the enemy speaks. God will walk with me moment by moment as I hold his hand and live as he wants me to. Free
Good Morning Sharon! I so needed your devotion this morning. I was diagnosed with MS in 2007. I had to retire from the State of GA in 05/2010. I have been treated for MS through injections during this time. In February of 2023, I contacted an upper respiratory infection. To make a very long story short, I developed Sepsis. I was put on a ventilator as soon as my husband took me to the ER. I almost died 2 times. I was in ICU for 58 days. I had to have
a trachea tube and a pec tube surgically inserted. I can’t begin to tell you all I went through during this time. Thank the Lord, I don’t remember anything during this time. After 6 weeks, I started coming around. I was discharged from an acute long term care facility on April 14th to an outpatient PT facility that I am currently attending. The Lord has answered so many prayers. I have a wonderful husband that never left my side, and my son and family have been wonderful also. Fast forward 6 months, physical therapy and numerous doctors appointments, and my progress was really quick for those first few months. It has slowed down now, and I tend to get discouraged, and yes, mope. My husband with the Lord’s help, has been my greatest advocate. I still can’t stay home by myself. The Lord has blessed me abundantly. This devotion has been so timely because the doctors have said it will take 1 to 1 1/2 years until I can get back to a state of normalcy. The Lord continues to shower his blessings down upon me. The doctors and nurses say that I am a miracle. I give all the glory to the Lord, and I thank my wonderful husband for walking beside me each step of the way. I just have to keep looking up, trust the Lord, and not mope when things don’t go as quickly or exactly as I think they should go. Yes, we definitely serve a God of miracles. Thank you so much for this devotion today.
Thank you for your devotion today. I have been moping for awhile now about some issues that have come up after my father’s passing. I just can’t see how the situation can possibly turn out well. I don’t want to go into details right now b/c I’m having a fairly good day today, but there have been days I can’t stop crying. I needed the reminder today that God doesn’t intend for me to stay stuck.
Lifting all of these comments/prayer requests up to our Lord. Blessing over each one of you and appreciate your honesty.
My daughter and I have a small business that is really struggling. I need my income for my day to day living an have not had a paycheck for quite a few months. Trying to stay faithful in not worrying. I know God has my best life planned. Waiting on Him.
God has been moving in my life in ways I never expected. I remember vaguely thinking that my life, at 62, was pretty much entrenched with the mundane tasks of working (2jobs), keeping grandchildren and going to church. All of which I love. But. Well, very routine. I decided that I would just be “all in” at church and find a fuller Christian experience. My husband agreed it was a good plan for both of us.
Until…my husband randomly said we should find a second home down by the beach. This was from my husband of 44 years who hates sand. Shock. Discussion. His promise he had prayed about it. We moved forward. We kept praying through each step. Encountered other Christians who needed to be encouraged in the providence of God. Lost people who needed prayer. And something amazing happened to me because of His grace and mercy. I am being renewed, refreshed and reminded by Abba that nothing is impossible with God! This latter part of life is proving to be quite an adventure!! TRUST HIM.
I too needed this today. Chronic digestive issues just wear me down. Moved Mom to senior living near me and she calls me regularly crying she wants to go home. Last week the doctor found a lump in my breast. I had breast cancer before and fear and dread going through that again. The message that God is not done with my life was a word of hope.
I have been reading your devotionals & have purchased a few of your books so feel we’re friends although we’ve never met.
This devotional started out so real for me with Christmas coming up. I have 3 children & we have not all been together since 2019 when my brother-in-law passed & everyone came to our home for Christmas along with my husband’s two remaining brothers.
This year I’m making everyone a special gift thinking we’ll all be together. I’ve been planning this for months.
Last year my oldest son & his wife were in Lebanon where she’s from for a long time! This year whenever I mentioned Christmas it seemed like they would be here. However, on September 30th my granddaughter’s 2nd birthday (daughter’s baby) they surprised everyone with Nour’s sister, Carol who is pregnant when they arrived!!! Then at dinner Nour announces they’re going to Canada for Christmas to be with Carol (long story that only makes sense if you hear the entire tale) so they’ll be with her when she has the baby. I was so sad & sorry for myself for a long time then I started being happy for Nour & her family welcoming the first baby boy into their family. The oldest daughter has 3 girls and she’ll be joining them in Canada as well, Nour has not been able to get pregnant yet & that’s been challenging. I have to learn not to be selfish but grateful we have a wonderful relationship with all of our children & their spouses. Once they get married there’s a whole nother side of people also wanting to be with them.
What I’ve done in the past is celebrate Christmas with my children & their families when we could. Last year we celebrated Christmas with our family in San Diego in March. I brought down a small artificial tree that I use to have the girls decorate at my home. I gave this to them & brought decorations for them to put on the tree. As they came downstairs I said “Merry Christmas”. They were laughing & we had a great time.
Lord bless you Sharon & hope this Christmas brings you new memories & blessings!
I am stuck…..when my Mom passed, (after over 2 decades of dealing with Alzheimers), I had lost my job prior to her final few months of life. Now 3 year after that job lose & 2 plus years since she has been gone. I am not moving. Oh, I have been volunteering, in my church Pantry, their Wardrobe
department, as a Girl Scout leader, & with a disability group…..but my house which I should be renovating, is a sloppy mess, I live alone & have a shakey relationship w my brother. Thank the Lord for a couple of women’s small groups I am a part of, yet I feel stuck. I’ve tried to reenter the workforce but to no avail( I really need the money). Please pray for me.
This was a much-needed devotion today. I’ve been moping over a long time relationship. He is currently with someone else and I have accepted the fact that he is in a new relationship. But we are still friends and have a small business together. There are times I mope as I think about all the years and everything we went through with his drug addiction. I feel like I groomed him for someone else. I was told by someone dear to me, that I wasn’t his love I was his lesson. I prepared him to love someone else the way I wanted to be loved. With that being said, months will go by and I mope every now and again. But I don’t get stuck there.
I read this while lying in bed moping. Waiting on confirmation of date when I
must leave my apartment (euphemism for “eviction”), and praying for a miracle that would enable me to stay as I have no funds and nowhere to go. I didn’t know it would be so hard to find a job at my age, 63. I moved here after almost 40 years elsewhere, having lived with my mother until her passing in 2012. Then came job loss in 2015 and went through my savings trying to keep a roof over my head. Never thought I’d end up like this and I constantly wonder if this mess and pain is part of God’s plan for my life. I long to hear from Him – some sign or reassurance. Many, many mornings I lie in bed unwilling to face the day. Many nights I go to bed wishing to not wake up. I don’t know how this will work out or why I’m still here. Or if I’m foolish to keep praying for that financial miracle. Or for any type of miracle. Well, I should stop typing and get out of bed.
Thank you, Sharon – your message on ‘moping’ is very timely for me! Because of finances we are having to move out of our beautiful home that we’ve lived in for 20 years! I am having a very difficult time in having to downsize! I understand the ‘why’ of it, but am still having a tough time of wrapping my head around it all & so I will admit I have been ‘moping’ about it all! I understand that things could be worse as it could be declining health, the homeless population, etc….but it is still hard giving up what we have worked so hard for! I pray that God does have a plan for us and that it will all work out, but I wish there was a ‘sign’ for me! My poor husband has to put up with me as I deal with this!
Thank you for God’s truth in your devotions! I am struggling like so many of you in so many similar ways. It was good to be reminded that only God can do what we cannot (which is mostly anything and everything) and it is His timing in which it will be done. I am willing to do whatever it is God wants me to, I only pray that I know what it is exactly!! That’s where I am held up. I would do it, like Samuel, if I only knew exactly what it is I need to do! I keep praying for Him to show me and my husband so we can be better providers for our children, but circumstances keep getting worse and worse financially. I pray that I see His light.
Praying for you all above!!
God spoke to my heart through this message from Sharon-to accept the things that God says No to… to not stop living bc it’s not my wanting.
This message confirmed to me with many other signs that it is time to stop moping about God’s No- & run toward the Yes’s! At least enjoy the Yes’s!
Ty.
This is what I needed today. My husband of 30 years walked out on our marriage on October 6. He said he’s not in love with me anymore and he wants to be happy for the remainder of his life. We still talk and are civil with each other but I am in grief!!! I am really trying to get reunited before the divorce can go through, but it’s a struggle. He’s stubborn too. I just found out he may have something wrong with his prostate so try to be supportive and drag my feet on getting divorced. Please pray!
Another one moping here. As I read the comments I see we all have heartbreaking stories. I know is not God’s intention for us to stay like this, I just ask how much more Lord? My heart truly aches, I feel is not strong anymore. I’ve heard of people who have died of broken heart disease and now I realized that that is a real thing because my heart really aches although I’m not sick. But it aches of so much that I’ve taken in, so much that I’ve been trough the last 2 years. Well, I guess I have to keep holding on as best I can until the moping is over…..wishing is right now for all of us.
I’m not sure if I am moping or in denial. I do not drink nor have I; however, I have been diagnosed with Stage 4 liver failure. Still in testing mode and will know 11/1 what my diagnosis will be. Praying there is enough of my liver that can work and re-generate to keep me living. No symptoms, no pain, only showing through bloodwork. At first and somewhat now, I have been in shock. I’m 73 but with many years of dreams ahead to see my granddaughters grow up, graduate college and marry and have me great grandbabies. I’m trying, praying and living life has God would lead, but I’m scared. I am not perfect, and I fail every day. Not that I doubt my salvation, but I do ask why now? My husband passed away about 9 years ago. I could give up and withdraw but I’m fighting to go to work as scheduled, help family where I can, but the unknown scenario is very scary. Prayers would be greatly appreciated that I would be graceful, prayerful and still thankful no matter the circumstances.
I had to place my mother in a long term care facility due to advancing Alzheimer’s and dementia. The guilt, the fear, the worry God is telling me to let go of.
How did you know I was moping? As I’m trying to come out of another number of months of deep depression, I
start to feel emotions again, especially anger. Yesterday my husband’s past traumas and current addiction brought out negative behaviors in him again. Instead of experiencing fear, I got angry. I ate what I shouldn’t have and didn’t get to sleep till 4:30 am. Now I am so confused I don’t want to face reality.
With 12yrs of severe depression, I’m tired of working so hard to do the next right thing and not seeing results. The longest I have had a break from this depression is 4 months. I just want it to be over. Sticking close to God has been my lifeline. Please pray for me.
I needed to hear this. I’ve been moping for over a year since my dad died. My mom seems to be not far behind, suffering from COPD. I am also about 50lbs overweight. Work is very slow. All seems so overwhelming. It’s about time to get up and let God finish the work He started in me. I know He has a lot to get out to this world and where am I? Behind screens stopping anything He can do through me. I’M UP!!!!
I try not to get mopey, but sometimes it’s just hard being a momma to a special needs adult daughter. There is never enough caregivers to help with respite or staffing for her community integration. My hubby and I are reliant on our other daughter to give a week of respite each year which we are so grateful for. BUT she lives in almost 1,000 miles away so that makes it hard to coordinate. Hubby and I go on dates when we can because we realize that we must keep our relationship strong in order to meet the needs of our daughter. I am thankful for our church which provides a day program 4 days per week for special needs adults. So I do mope once in awhile, but God is gracious in helping me keep things in perspective. I have a friend whose son is 40 and in a wheelchair. She has a much harder road then I do. My daughter can walk, talk, do all the basic grooming with only help with flossing and brushing her teeth and we have great medication to help with her disabilities. God is good and He gives me the strength I need to keep going. If I didn’t have Him, I doubt I would get out of bed!
This devotion is absolutely timely for me. my cat passed away last month, which we will be bringing her to panda from Hong Kong. we are new immigrants to Canada. we are extremely heart-broken and I moped for her day and night. I want to hide myself in the bed forever.
in the mean while, I have registered for a program in regent college in Vancouver studying MA in theological study. I don’t want to go seminary and study. when I woke up this morning, I saw this devotion and I feel that God is calling me to stop moping , get up and get going to seminary.
Thank you for God’s graces and messages! it really helps me.
I have been “mopey”, too, sometimes crying on the way to the school where I teach art. I am treated with disrespect there by some. I have been really trying to lean in to Jesus, but I forget. And I begin to feel hated, which I may not be, but my mind makes up stuff. Thank you for your devotion today. I want the fire of God to burn away stuff that isn’t working so I can be a loved member of His kingdom, doing his will for me, and NOT letting the people issues get me down! His will be done for His glory through me – in His time.
Today I had a minor surgery (D&C) which I had been putting off due to many issues. Four deaths in our family in a month and a half. Also, my daughter’s husband filing for divorce during this time and seeing her crumble in desperation. However, none of my hills seem as steep as many precious sisters on this feed. I am 72 and God has answered so many of my prayers when I continually pulled the covers over my head! I have a kind husband of nearly 53 years (who still works), two loving daughters and God’s grace! I know I am not worthy but through prayer the valley we were going through is getting less steep. Thank you Sharon for this message and I pray for everyone in their challenging circumstances. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
I am mopey because I am really overweight and can’t seem to stick with anything long enough to really make a difference. It has truly been a struggle for me. I just need to do it and stick with it. I am to young to feel this old all the time.
I’m done moping about my depression. I need to take hold of my days and trust in God for his healing powers. I know he will heal me since he has many times before. It is a struggle each day to get out of bed and to go through my day. I’m hopeful for restoration of my mind and for my mind to be controlled by the Spirit which brings life and peace. I pray dear Lord that you will not make me wait too much longer for healing. Bring me motivation to get through my days and bring joy back into my life. I pray this is Jesus’s glorious name, Amen.
I left work today feeling so low and forgotten. I have become the oldest in my group. Don’t really know where I belong. I have worked solid since college. I have been through Breast Cancer and came out okay. Just feel sad. I am looking forward to retirement soon.
I get mopey when I’m lonely. After being married twice (46 years total) I am almost 70 years old and by myself. I have kids and grandkids who I’m so thankful for, but it would be nice to have someone special to share and go do things with. I know God has a plan, but it is easy to become discouraged.
Wow! This really hit the nail on the head for me! Job, family issues, I mope. God has done so much for me! I try but I keep this mopeyness up. I pray that with Gods help and guidance he will show me the path and I will try to keep my feet where they belong! Thank you for pulling up the shade.
Thank you for this on-time message from God. I am mopey because of finances. With a kid in college, student loan payments starting, and bills piling up life is on a roller coaster but I’m trusting and believing that God is going to see us through this storm.
Thank you Sharon,
I really needed this message today. I have to keep working on breaking the mopey attitude that keeps sliding into my life. I just keep pushing myself forward and remember that God covers tomorrow. We are so Blessed!
I have been mopping for 21yrs. My husband ended our 34 year marriage. I just knew God would put a goid Christian man in my life.
It has been lonely, tough and exhausting.
Gods grace gets me through each day but the disappointment causes a lot of mopping.
I have been moping about my ex boyfriend. God has been trying to tell me that “my ex boyfriend” is not the guy for me. I was so foolishly in love with him and God took him to the other side of the world. Now I am seeing “ex boyfriend” realistically and seeing why God doesn’t want me to be with him. First of all he is not a Christian and second he was only using me. I feel sad but need to busy myself and forget about him. I feel lonely but see the importance of marrying a Christian. Jesus is coming soon and I need to focus on Jesus.
Wow. Yes, I’ve been moping a bit…this entire year seems to have been a year for waiting – for the next doctor’s appointment, medical test, surgery…repeat. (Kidney stones – surgery – parathyroid tests – waiting for schedule of next surgery for that…) The good part – very little pain. The bad part – my attitude? Just tired of always waiting for stuff that isn’t fun. But then I read through this list of what others have been going through and scold myself – I could better use my time to be praying for so many who are truly suffering through pain and loss!! If I truly have faith, I will know that God’s plan is infinitely better than my plan…
Author
I love your resolve!
My 30 yr old son took money I sent for supplies & left sober living to drink & drugs. He was murdered that very night. He was a Believer but kept losing his way. He never quit believing,praying& listening to God’s Word. He was saved By The Blood& accepting Christ & few years ago chose to be emersion Baptized He died in the streets to full blown sin that lead to his death. Since he died in this condition can nothing pluck him from The Father’s Hand?
I’m struggling with moping about too many things, really … I don’t think I want to do my job anymore, I’m broke all the time (living paycheck to paycheck), being alone and isolating myself, and lastly, trying to find a church to belong to again. I feel completely lost in all areas of my life that moping has become predominant. Ugh!
I’ve been diagnosed with 2 different types of cancer in the last few weeks. They are non operative. I have put my full trust in God. He has given me peace. Now we move forward to develope a treatment plan and follow it. The results is up to God. Please pray for His guidance and power. Thank you! Godspeed!
Juselda
October 27, 2023 At: 404 pm
Sharon Thank you for, your devotion I am going through health Issue and questioning God I could say I
am moping about my situation God is always there for us he is our rock in the struggle of life, on the
light at the end of the tunnel, Sister let us all stay strong in the Lord and in the Power of his might
knowing he will see us true these ruff road a heads
:
;
Juselda
October 27, 2023 At: 404 pm
Sharon Thank you for, your devotion I am going through health Issue and questioning God I could say I
am moping about my situation God is always there for us he is our rock in the struggle of life, on the
light at the end of the tunnel, Sister let us all stay strong in the Lord and in the Power of his might
knowing he will see us true these ruff road a head I have not submitted this before
:
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Wow!! I so needed this TODAY! Been suffering with health issues fir a few years because of a minor surgery which effected my nerve system. I use to walk 5 miles a day now it’s a struggle to just walk around my home. My husband tells me a lot to quit feeling sorry for myself. When you lose your ability to do everyday chores it is depressing.
I ask God to help me and He tells me different ways that I can still minister to people. I try to focus on what I can do instead of what I can’t.
Thank You for this message
This devotional really hit me in a good way today. God’s been telling me to stop moping over my failed marriage. My husband betrayed me several years ago, and I kept clinging on…waiting, praying, and hoping for a miracle in my marriage. But the truth is, the marriage has been dead for years. I need to recognize that God has rejected my husband because of his disobedience and his dishonoring of our marriage. God even set things in motion for our physical separation about 3 years ago. It’s time to stop moping and keep moving forward with my eyes fixed on Jesus.