In prayer I often start with the mind and work my way down to the soul believing it to be the deepest, most spiritual connection we have to God. Often are souls are what we battle in silence. We may not even be aware our souls are being stirred, but indeed, they are real, the feelings run deep, and they seem to be more connected to the Eternal than the rest of us.

"As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, the living God..." -Psalm 42:1-2

When things of this world are tried and found wanting the soul yearns for Something more. Tell God what you've been longing for the most and ask for Him to place in you a yearning for Him above all else.

"Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. My soul is downcast within me; therefore I will remember you..." -Psalm 42:5-6

Depression and anxiety are real. I do believe there are solutions that can and should be utilized, but I also believe many times these stem from a spiritual relationship gone awry. When sad where do you turn? When discouraged where is your hope? Before turning anywhere else cry out to your Maker and remember His faithfulness.

My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken...Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him...One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: that you, O God, are strong, and that you, O Lord, are loving." -Psalm 62:1-2, 5, 11-12

Take a few minutes each day to intentionally rest your soul in God. He is worth the time and you are enough to Him. Seek God and find hope.