It was the kind of eatery where you stand in line, place your order, and then step aside to wait for your food to appear. After I did just that, a young man took my place in front of the cash register. He ordered his food by using gestures and broken words. Paying was difficult for him, because one of his wrists was turned so that his fingers pointed back to his body. And walking to a table meant overcoming the uneven function of his legs. This young man struggled physically, yet courageously.

In a similar way, many of us struggle with internal impairments—grief, addiction, depression, and anxiety. Daily tasks can become nearly impossible when these problems result in exhaustion, restlessness, and preoccupation. The psalmist who penned Psalm 42 described his inner issues this way: “Day and night I have only tears for food” (Psalm 42:3); “My heart is breaking” (Psalm 42:4); “I am deeply discouraged” (Psalm 42:6). As a result of these feelings, questions crept into his mind: “Why is my heart so sad?” (Psalm 42:5); “Why must I wander around in grief?” (Psalm 42:9).

Woven in with the psalmist’s despair was a sturdy cord of hope. He reached out to the One who could help, declaring, “I will praise Him again—my Savior and my God” (Psalm 42:5-6). During sleepless nights, he sang God-centered melodies, and prayed—as he put it—“to God who gives me life” (Psalm 42:8). He knew that, despite his distress, God was sustaining him at that time—daily pouring affection on him (Psalm 42:8).

Actively remembering God (Psalm 42:6) inspired the psalmist to put one foot in front of the other. His practices helped him persevere despite intense emotions and unanswered questions. If you’re struggling today, reach out to the living God and remember that “those who trust in the Lord will find new strength” (Isaiah 40:31).

NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Joshua 7:1-26