HOW CAN YOU COMBAT NEGATIVE FEELINGS?

Develop a Close Friendship With God

How do we benefit if we see ourselves as God sees us?  We will find it easier to take the next step in overcoming negative feelings-building a close friendship with God. Is that really possible?  

As a loving Father, Jehovah God is eager to help us develop a close friendship with him. The Bible urges us:  "Draw Close to God, and he will draw close to you."  (James 4:8)  Here is an amazing truth: weak and sinful though we are, we can build a warm personal friendship with the Sovereign of the universe.

God has revealed himself in the Bible so that we can get to know him as a person. By reading the Bible regularly, we can learn about God's appealing qualities.  As we meditate on such knowledge, we will feel ever closer to Jehovah. We will see him more clearly for what he truly is-a loving compassionate Father. 

Thinking deeply about what we read in the Bible does still more for us.  We draw closer to our heavenly Father by taking his thoughts into our mind and heart, allowing them to correct, console, and guide us.  We especially need to do so when we are struggling with thoughts and feelings that trouble or disquiet us.  The psalmist put it this way:  "When I burdened with worries, you comforted me and made me feel secure."  (Psalm 94:19, Contemporary English Version) God's Word can be profoundly comforting. If we humbly accept his message of truth, we may find that our negative feelings are gradually displaced by the comfort and the peace that only God can provide. Jehovah thus consoles us as a loving parent might sooth a hurt or upset child.

Another key to becoming God's friend involves talking to him regularly. The Bible assures us that "no matter what it is we ask according to his will, [God] hears us."  (1 John 5:14)  Whatever fears or anxieties we may have,  we can pray to God and ask for his help.  If we open our hearts to God, we gain peace of mind.  The apostle Paul wrote:  In everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that excels all though will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus." -Philippians 4:6, 7. 

As you adhere to a program of Bible reading, meditation, and personal prayer, you will no doubt find that you are building a close bond with your heavenly Father.  That bond is a powerful weapon to wield against negative feelings.  What else may help?

Note: Satan can also make you feel negative feelings, which is why, it is very important to read the Bible regularly, say prayers and thank Jehovah for all the undeserved kindnesses and blessings that he has bestowed up you ,  talk to God, and draw ever closer to him.

Next time: HOW CAN YOU COMBAT NEGATIVE FEELINGS?/Focus On a Sure Hope for the Future

From the Watchtower magazine