We’ve all had them.  Some of us more often than others.  They happen for various reasons in the various seasons of our lives.  Many occur in the midst of crisis, challenge, or heartache.  But they can also happen when things seem to be going relatively smoothly in our lives.  You know, those mornings you just don’t feel like facing the world and would prefer to remain beneath the safe and comfortable confines of your bed covers.

As we travel the road of life, we can’t always control our circumstances, but we do have the option to control how we react to them.  So on mornings such as those, here are three things you can do that can give you the hope and encouragement you need to face the day.

1.Pray

“ But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33

Some mornings we know exactly what’s weighing us down.  Other mornings it’s not so clear, we only know there is a dark cloud hovering overhead.  Regardless of the circumstances, know you are not alone.  You have a loving God to guard and guide you.  So seek Him first and foremost through prayer.  Here are some things you can pray about:

• Seek to surrender. “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7.  Share your burden with God and trust that He knows, understands, and will provide for your needs.
• Seek His comfort.  “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16.  Know that no matter what, God loves you and will never leave you.  Thank Him for His love and let that love embrace you.
• Seek wisdom.  “Blessed is the one who find wisdom, and the one who gets understanding.” Proverbs 3:13.  Ask God to shine a light on the source of your angst and pray for guidance regarding how to address those obstacles and challenges you are currently facing.

2.Engage

The road of life is not meant to be traveled alone.  Seek out a trusted friend or loved one and engage with them.  Sometimes all that is needed is someone who is willing to listen.  Or someone to offer a small bit of feedback or encouragement that can help steer you back on course.

3.Serve

Sometimes the best way to gain the insights you need to overcome a challenge is to help someone else overcome theirs.  Seek to be a blessing to someone else.  Your act of kindness can help take the focus off your own challenge and even provide the perspective you need to overcome the obstacle you currently face.

What is one thing that offers you the hope and encouragement you need to come out from the under the bed covers on those mornings you just don’t feel like getting out of bed?