Do you want a brighter future, friend? 🌟

Depression and discouragement are not like a mysterious virus that we cannot treat or avoid. There are steps you can take to never be depressed again. Oh sure, you will have to learn how to fight discouragement and serious setbacks. You will have to learn to build a strong network of friends, family, and leaders. But there are a few more tools I’d like to add to your toolbox of life. 

Would you like to add a few more tools to your toolbox so you can build a great life and change the lives of others? Great, so would I. So let’s look at two more daily practices that will help you build an impactful future.

1. Believe and declare your future is bright because you are loved by God. The Bible encourages you to “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.” (Isaiah 60:1, NIV) friend, it’s your time to shine. God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life. Jeremiah 29:11 says it so well: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” (NIV) 
2. Make sure your heart is cleaned out every day. Unresolved and unhealed hurts and betrayals are toxic. Internal garbage can cause depression and discouragement. “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalms 51:10, NIV)   

Paul the Apostle once admonished the believers in Ephesus to “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger, brawling, and slander, along with every form of malice.” (Ephesians 4:31, NIV) 

A clean heart and mind are happy, confident, and dynamic. I’m a living testament to the power of forgiveness and daily healing by the Holy Spirit. He can be your counselor as well. Before I go to sleep at night, I generally repeat the 23rd Psalm and then say these words: “I forgive, release, and let go of all offenses and hurt. Fill me, Holy Spirit, and heal me.”

friend, as you clean out your heart, you will start feeling more empowered and energized to build a new you and a better future.

Because you’re a miracle.