"I AM REALLY STRUGGLING"

Matt’s Dilemma
Marlene Custer

“I am really struggling.” 

Matt shifted in his seat as he shared with his accountability partner. 

“I get up in a pretty good mood, then listen to the news while eating a quick breakfast. 

By the time I leave for work, I’m on a downward spiral. 

The shootings, the kids that are missing, politics, immigration concerns - it keeps my mind in turmoil all day. 

I don’t feel like a joyful Christian. 

I feel more like a big phony.” Matt sighed.

Jason set down his coffee cup and focused on Matt. 

“I hear you. 

I had to quit listening to the news early in the morning. 

I am working hard to not think about those things that drag me down. 

I was reading in my Bible this morning where the Apostle Paul encouraged the Philippians 

to think about things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, anything that is excellent or praiseworthy.” (Philippians 4:8 NIV)
Matt turned to Philippians 4:8 in his New Testament to read it for himself. 

“I like being informed, but I’m willing to give this a try. 

I sure don’t like being in the doldrums all the time.”

Two weeks later, Matt waited eagerly for Jason to join him for coffee. 

“Oh, man! Your advice has made a difference in how my days go. 

I made a list of positive things to think about - things that Paul mentioned in Philippians. 

When anxiety or worries about my family start to cloud my mind, I take a look at my list. 

I am also watching less television and spending more time reading God’s Word.”

Jason smiled. “It looks like you have a great action plan!”

Marlene is a retired teacher that wants to share God’s Word. Contact