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When Pharaoh turned up the heat and increased the workload of the Israelites, triggering relentless complaining on the part of the people, Moses cried out, “O Lord, why have You brought harm to this people? Why did you ever send me? Ever since I came to Pharaoh to speak in Your name, he has done harm to this people, and you have not delivered Your people at all” (Exodus 5:22-23). God was not surprised or offended by Moses’ outburst. In fact, He used this as an opportunity to reassure Moses of the plan for His people. Going to others, such as family, friends, and trained professionals can certainly help you through emotional battles. Just make sure you start by going to God. Anticipate a visit from God. The first time Elijah prayed, an angel came and ministered to him. Forty days later, God Himself spoke to the prophet in a gentle whisper (1 Kings 19:12). Having preached numerous times on the life of Abraham, I marvel at the number of times God “visited” him. Whether by voice, vision, or personal representation, God came to call, inform, inspire and test (see Gen. 12:1, 12:7,13:14, 15:1, 17:1, 18:1, 22:1). During Paul’s final voyage to Rome, a storm packing hurricane force winds threatened to kill everyone aboard. Then an angel appeared, providing the apostle with instruction and assurance (Acts 27:24). It may not be through an audible voice or by an angel; nevertheless, God still speaks–most likely through His Word and the Holy Spirit in our day. Pastor and author Rick Warren advises those facing difficult circumstances: “If you are depressed, take your Bible and go to the ocean or to a lake or out in the country. Sit down and read your Bible, and get alone with God. Just let God love you and speak to you. Let Him meet your needs, and let yourself feel His presence. There is no greater antidepressant than communication and fellowship with God.” 3 Even if you can’t make it to the ocean, lake, orcountry, avail yourself to the Lord and prepare for His presence.

3 Rick Warren, Answers to Life’s Difficult Questions (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 40.

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