Every cloud has a silver lining, they say. If you look hard enough—and think positive thoughts—you're bound to uncover happiness in the midst of despair. But what happens when your cloud looks perpetually gray? When you're desperately searching for a healthy outlook, but only feel downtrodden and defeated?

Maybe, after working tirelessly to repair your credit, you receive an unexpected call from the credit card company: someone has stolen your identity. Where's the silver lining? Or maybe, after years of extra hours and positive performance reviews, a less-experienced co-worker runs away with your promotion.  You feel trapped in a dead-end job.Where’s the silver lining?

While awaiting the emergence of a silver lining, I often wait (impatiently) for a positive resolution

In my own life, I have experienced seasons where I can’t seem to see the bright side. While awaiting the emergence of a silver lining, I often wait (impatiently) for a positive resolution—for a happy ending. Surely I’ll learn something from this, right? Eventually I’ll come out on top. But sometimes, a happy ending never arrives.

In these moments, when I look over the horizon and only see storm clouds, I am reminded of Deuteronomy 31:6: “Be determined and confident…Your God, the Lord himself, will be with you. He will not fail you or abandon you” (GNTD).

Even when I can’t seem to think positively—even when I feel lost in the depths of discouragement—God provides hope.  He wraps me in his love and reminds me of his presence. And, as I seek him through Scripture, he offers an eternal silver lining.

Even when I feel lost in the depths of discouragement—God provides hope

When you can’t seem to see the bright side, call out to God in prayer. Meditate on his Word, uncovering messages of love, patience and perseverance. And rely on him for hope, even when your circumstances feel gray.

These six prayers will get you started:

1. Lord, calm my fears and my worries.
   Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. And God's peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-7 (GNTD)
2. Lord, give me your peace.
   Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid. – John 14:27 (GNTD)
3. Lord, remind me of your presence.
   Remember that I have commanded you to be determined and confident! Do not be afraid or discouraged, for I, the Lord your God, am with you wherever you go. – Joshua 1:9 (GNTD)
4. Lord, give me endurance.
   May you be made strong with all the strength which comes from his glorious power, so that you may be able to endure everything with patience. – Colossians 1:11 (GNTD)
5. Lord, help me to trust in you.
   Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Never rely on what you think you know. Remember the Lord in everything you do, and he will show you the right way. – Proverbs 3:5-6 (GNTD)
6. Lord, remind me of your endless love.
   But you, O Lord, are a merciful and loving God, always patient, always kind and faithful.– Psalm 86:15 (GNTD)