Down in the Dust - Martin Wiles

I lie in the dust, completely discouraged; revive me by your word. Psalm 119:25 NLT

Rejections have a way of putting someone in the dust. 

Writers know what it is to face rejection. The only way to avoid it is never to send anything out to be considered for publication. “We’re sorry. We are not receiving manuscripts at this time.” Or “We’d like to hold your devotional for further consideration.” Then ten minutes later another email arrives saying they decided not to use it anyway. When rejections letters or emails come, it makes me want to put the pen down—or in my case the keyboard. What’s the use, I think. No one wants to read my stuff anyway. Feelings of worthlessness follow. Before long, I’m in the dust. 

Why the psalmist was discouraged I’m not sure. Perhaps he had witnessed the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem by invading armies. Maybe he wondered if it would ever be rebuilt…if he would ever be able to return to his homeland. Whatever the source, he was down in the dust. 

Satan loves to put believers in the dust. He’s had me there numerous times. I remember one occasion when I was out of work and had sent out hundreds of resumes applying for positions in my profession only to be rejected by every single one. I was older than who they were looking for. I didn’t have the credentials they sought. I didn’t…. The reason wasn’t important. I was left in the dust. 

Satan knows putting me in the dust often leads to discouragement. If he can turn up the discouragement, I might give up and quit. Unhealthy emotions will take over, and before I know it I’m depressed or feeling worthless. No initiative left. Dreams dashed. Goals evaporated. In the dust and useless. 

God never intends for us to grovel in the dust…unless it’s to repent. He wants us to know we can do all things through Him because He gives us strength. He wants us to learn contentment in every situation by realizing He’s in control. Whatever you’re facing, God is all you need to get through. 

Trust God to lift you out of your “down in the dust” episode.

Prayer: Father, thank You for lifting us up when we feel down in the dust. 

Looking for a wide selection of genres in Christian books at discount prices? Use coupon MWiles and get a 20% discount on any book. Click here to see selections.  

Thanks to all our faithful followers who are "sharing" our posts--please keep it up! We also invite you to follow and like us on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter. Help us spread God's encouragement through his love lines.