I just keep saying I’m fine, but I’m not. This is a ‘will get worse’ as time goes by.
 Her heart spilled across the page, its pieces shattered in bits—bleeding hopelessness against the white of the paper.
When suffering settles in, an unwanted companion, and makes itself at home in the tender places of our hearts, how can hope stay alive? Is it even possible?
For the woman whose husband has both Parkinson’s and dementia…for the person struggling day after day with the hidden pain of depression…for the mother wondering if anyone understands what it is to lose the child she once held safe in her arms—He thought of you when He offered the invitation.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30).
Christ reminds us to come to Him when our burden is beyond bearing; when we fear collapse beneath the weight of painful circumstances and overwhelming emotion. But, He doesn’t call us to a list of do’s and don’ts or a religious experience—He invites us into relationship.
When we take on Christ’s yoke and follow His gentle lead—despite our suffering and regardless of our hurt—we walk step-by-step through the dark valley with Jesus. And, the all-powerful God bears the heaviness. When tears blur our vision and we stumble, He guides us. When anger fills our heart and we refuse to move forward, He gently pulls us close. When hope threatens our faith, He whispers, “Come to me.”
Feelings are real, but can lead us away from the One in whom we can find true relief, hope and rest. If we trust Him enough to believe He is our salvation, we can trust Him to be with us in the difficult.
 
Action Steps to Take When You Feel Hopeless

1. Memorize scriptures that remind you of the truth when feelings twist the reality of your eternal hope. (Matthew 11:28-30, Isaiah 42:3-4, Joel 2:25)
2. Find a support group, counselor, or trusted friends who will listen when you say, “I’m not fine.”
3. Read books to inspire, encourage, or educate you about your area of struggle.
4. Volunteer or get involved with a cause related to your struggle.