How’s Your Misery Index?

How’s Your Misery Index?

“Give us gladness in proportion to our former misery! Replace the evil years with good.” Psalm 90:15 NLT

The “Misery Index” was devised by an economist in the 1970’s to define the bad effects of unemployment and inflation on the economy.

A noted psychiatrist devised a stress index to determine point at which a nervous breakdown would occur.

Miseries like death of a loved one, divorce, financial problems, health problems, etc, were all given scores depending on the severity of the problem, and when the combined score went above 300, a nervous breakdown was imminent.

We all have our share of shortcomings and problems that will send our misery index over the breaking point if we are not anchored deep in the peace and security of a love relationship with God that comes through faith in, and a personal relationship with, Jesus Christ.

There is a misery index brought on by the consequences of our inherited and actual sins that can sometimes seem to soar through the roof and rob us of our health, happiness, joy and peace.
The sin of unbelief can doom us into an eternity of misery in hell. Pride, envy, jealousy, anger, and lust can pile misery upon us.

The lost live with their misery through developing a hardened heart and dull conscience. It is only when the Holy Spirit breaks through these barriers that anyone lost can receive the gift of eternal life.

A believer’s conscience is designed to make us so miserable that we will acknowledge our sin before God and receive not only forgiveness, but the power to repent and die to sin and come alive in Christ.

It’s good to know that God provides a safety valve for our misery. We can unload all our sins, sorrows, and griefs at the cross and let Jesus free us from the bondage of burdens and fill us with the peace that surpasses all understanding.

Father, help me to overcome misery and find true joy in You.

In Jesus' Name, Amen


Chris Spears
Ocala Florida

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