We all experience moments of exhaustion—mentally, physically, emotionally, and even spiritually. Burnout is real, and when we are depleted, it’s easy for doubt to creep in.
We start questioning ourselves, our purpose, and sometimes even God’s love for us. “Does He really love me? Am I even worthy of His love?” These thoughts, fueled by exhaustion and discouragement, can spiral into a deep pit of despair.
I firmly believe that the enemy knows when we are at our weakest. He doesn’t attack when we are strong, full of faith, and rested—he waits until we’re tired, drained, and vulnerable. That’s when spiritual warfare intensifies.
The question is: when we find ourselves in that pit, how do we climb out?
1. Recognize the Attack for What It Is
The enemy works in deception. His goal is to isolate you, wear you down, and fill your mind with lies.
- “You’re a failure.”
- “God doesn’t love you.”
- “You’ll never get out of this.”
- “You are alone.”
Sound familiar? These are not thoughts from God. The enemy whispers lies, hoping you’ll believe them and remain in despair.
But you have to recognize that these thoughts are an attack—not truth.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” (John 10:10)
Jesus came to give you life, not leave you in despair. The moment you start hearing these negative thoughts, call them out for what they are: spiritual warfare.
2. Rest in God’s Presence
One of the biggest reasons we find ourselves in the pit is burnout. We pour ourselves out but forget to be filled back up.
When Elijah was at his lowest, exhausted and afraid, he ran into the wilderness and collapsed under a tree, asking God to take his life (1 Kings 19:4). What did God do?
- He gave Elijah food.
- He let him rest.
- Then He spoke in a still, small voice.
Sometimes, the most spiritual thing you can do is rest. If you are mentally and physically drained, your first step out of the pit might not be a major revelation—it might just be getting a good night’s sleep and eating a decent meal.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
God designed us to rest. Stop beating yourself up for needing it.
3. Speak Truth Over the Lies
The enemy’s lies lose power when we fight back with God’s Word. When Jesus was tempted in the wilderness, He didn’t argue—He responded with Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11).
When the enemy says: “You’re not loved.”
God’s Word says: “I have loved you with an everlasting love.” (Jeremiah 31:3)
When the enemy says: “You are alone.”
God’s Word says: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)
When the enemy says: “You will never get out of this.”
God’s Word says: “I know the plans I have for you… plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
Speaking truth breaks the power of the enemy’s lies. It may feel unnatural at first, but speak God’s promises out loud. Declare them over your life.
4. Worship in the Middle of the Battle
One of the most powerful ways to fight discouragement is worship. Worship shifts our focus from the problem to the Provider.
- Paul and Silas were beaten and imprisoned, yet at midnight, they sang praises to God—and God moved (Acts 16:25-26).
- Jehoshaphat sent worshippers ahead of his army, and God fought the battle for them (2 Chronicles 20:21-22).
When you feel surrounded by despair, turn your worry into worship. Even if it’s just one song, let worship fill your space.
“Put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.” (Isaiah 61:3)
5. Stay Connected to God’s People
When you’re in a pit, the last thing you might want to do is reach out—but isolation is where the enemy works best.
- When Moses was too tired to hold up his arms, Aaron and Hur held them up for him (Exodus 17:12).
- When Jesus sent out His disciples, He sent them in pairs (Mark 6:7).
You were never meant to fight alone. Find a trusted friend, mentor, or church community who can encourage you, pray for you, and remind you of truth when you can’t see it yourself.
6. Choose to Keep Moving Forward
Even when you don’t feel like it, take small steps forward. Depression and despair thrive in stagnation. Get outside. Go for a walk. Read one Bible verse. Pray one simple prayer. Do one small thing to break the cycle of hopelessness.
Even David, who battled deep despair, made a choice:
“Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” (Psalm 42:11)
David told his soul what to do—to hope, to praise, to trust God. Even when you don’t feel it, choose to keep going.
Climbing Out, One Step at a Time
If you find yourself in the pit today, know this: You are not alone. You are not forgotten. God is with you.
- Recognize the attack.
- Rest in God’s presence.
- Speak truth over lies.
- Worship even in the battle.
- Stay connected to God’s people.
- Keep moving forward, even when it’s hard.
The enemy wants you to believe there is no way out—but God has already made a way. And He’s not just waiting at the top of the pit—He is in it with you, lifting you up.
You don’t have to climb out alone. Let the Holy Spirit, your Helper, lead you back into the light.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)
You are loved. You are not alone. And you will rise again.
