Navigating the Highs and Lows of Life
ICS Daily Devotions
1 Samuel 30:3-6 (NKJV) So David and his men came to the city, and there it was, burned with fire; and their wives, their sons, and their daughters had been taken captive. Then David and the people who were with him lifted up their voices and wept, until they had no more power to weep. And David’s two wives, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail the widow of Nabal the Carmelite, had been taken captive. Now David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and his daughters. But David strengthened himself in the LORD his God.
All of us will experience the highs and lows of life, including heartbreak and anger. This can leave us feeling blue, bummed out, frustrated, and oppressed. Common causes these days might include working in a toxic environment, being caught in a toxic relationship, going through a failed marriage or legal dispute, facing losses in our investments, or losing a job.
People respond to crises in very different ways. However, it is always wrong to resort to violence, self-harm, or venting anger on others through verbal or physical abuse. Some people may become irrational when distressed and overwhelmed; some will gather for a pity party, while others internalise everything.
Sometimes, a person may be in a state of depression due to clinical or biological factors, not the fault of anyone, or it could be a spiritual attack. We should always keep a lookout so we can spot and help those in need. Our love and action can help pull them up. Nobody will always be in a happy and joyous mood, but we can take comfort in finding strength and comfort in the presence of God.
Philippians 2:14 (NKJV) Do all things without complaining and disputing.
David’s men blamed him for the captivity of their spouses and children and complained and murmured. They even wanted to stone David for leading them into battle while the home base was destroyed and their loved ones taken captive. Divide and conquer is a common tactic of the devil. Therefore, we need to watch our attitude and spirit, especially during a crisis, to ensure we do not complain or engage in unnecessary disputes.
We tend to justify our complaints, murmur, and utter dissatisfaction when we are down or bummed out. What we don’t realise is that by repeating it, we build up negative vibes in our hearts because our words carry tremendous power. Likewise, our emotions are stirred up when we repeatedly murmur and complain. Unknowingly, we might slip into depression when we dwell too much on the negatives, the injustice, and the people who treated us unkindly. Slowly, the countenance changes as the mood changes, and it will affect every aspect of life. In contrast, faith builds up, and hope develops when we listen to the Word of God.
David responded rightly in the midst of his crisis. He neither blamed God nor gave in to bitterness. Instead, he found strength in the Lord.
Reflection: How have you seen the power of your words—positive or negative—affect your mood and emotional state? What is the Holy Spirit leading you to change about how you process anger and heartbreak?
Sermon Series： 2026 CG Campaign — Up Part 1
