Discouraged or Depressed? The Apostle Paul couldn't sing...

...about his circumstances, but he could sing about the God who is in control of all circumstances. He had learned that praise is an important factor in achieving victory over discouragement and depression. 

"Praise changes things" just as much as "Prayer changes things". We should praise the Father because we are as dear to Him as His Son is, because we are in His Son (John 17:22-23)

God doesn't pat us on the head and give us a piece of candy or a toy to distract our attention from our troubles. No, He puts strength into our hearts so we can face our trials and triumph over them.

When you find yourself discouraged because of difficult circumstances, its easy to look at yourself and your feelings, or to focus on the problems around you. But the first step you must take is to look by faith to the Lord and realize all that God is to you.

Psalm 121:1-2 I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills from whence commeth my help. My help cometh from the Lord which made heaven and earth.