In the classic allegory The Pilgrim’s Progress, the main character, Christian, tumbles into the miry bog, the “slough of despond,” and struggles to get free. But the heavy burden on his back pulls him in deeper, and he begins to sink.
This image pictures what it feels like when we’re sinking in difficult circumstances—when our debts outweigh our income, when past hurts won’t heal, when discontentment marks our relationships, and when the light of heaven seems distant and dim. Discouragement, despondency, pain, suffering—these miry pits along life’s journey can pull us down into our own “slough of despond.”
Christian’s rescue came by the hand of a fellow traveler named Help . . . and the same is true for you today. Use these resources to find encouragement and healing for your own life . . . or to minister help to those you find along life’s journey.
Featured Article "How to Trust When You’re Troubled"
by Charles R. Swindoll
Are you or somebody you know facing a seemingly unsolvable problem today? The great Old Testament giant of endurance, Job, reveals that often the situations with no human answers become an opportunity for God to do His best work in our lives.
Featured Audio “Focusing on God’s Faithfulness”
(Lamentations 3:19-26)
The Old Testament book of Lamentations reveals a mournful portrait of Jerusalem, personifying it as lonely and despondent after most of its inhabitants were exiled to Babylon. Yet even as the prophet Jeremiah cries out in anguish for what’s been lost, he knows there is reason to hope in God’s loving-kindness, His compassion and, most of all, His faithfulness.
Resources
Browse through our complete list of products related to encouragement and healing to find books, study guides, audio series, and more to enhance your learning.
Featured Book Getting Through the Tough Stuff
softcover book
With a realistic view of life, Chuck sheds light on the dark and complicated struggles we all face. Getting Through the Tough Stuff is a book of encouragement and hope . . . an invitation to meet Christ at the crossroads of life and move beyond the tough times.
Featured Study Getting Through the Tough Stuff workbook
Perfect for personal devotions, small-group Bible studies, and church curriculum, this workbook offers special features including "Getting to the Root," which explores biblical words and concepts, and "Taking Truth to Heart," which guides you into personal reflection and application.
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