Dealing With Depressionনমুনা

Let’s face it...

Depression is a common response to loss. During this pandemic, some have lost their jobs, companies, finances, security, friends and family. Depression and suicide have become more common than ever. 

Have you lost anything during the pandemic? 

Let’s face it, this virus can be deadly, and the measures that were chosen have caused massive losses to all of us. We weren’t allowed to go to church, school, soccer matches, theaters, restaurants or malls. Some of my friends weren’t allowed to see their dying family members. The losses cannot be calculated in dollars only. There is no price tag on spiritual, emotional or relational loss. 

I’m so sorry for the losses you’ve suffered. If you are discouraged or depressed, please let us know. We will pray for you and your loved ones. 

The Bible promises us that “‘if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.’” (2 Chronicles 7:14, NIV)

My mom is 99 years old. Although she struggles with moments of dementia, she is very aware of my absence. I’m not allowed to travel into Canada, nor am I allowed to see her, hug her or kiss her. I miss my mom, and she misses me. She just doesn’t understand the rules and regulations that hinder her son from visiting her and giving her a big hug. 

A recent conversation went like this:

“Paul, come and see me. I miss you.” 

“Mom, I can’t. The pandemic is stopping me.”

“Paul, it’s over, you can come now.”

“But Mom, who said that it’s over?”

“Me.” 

“Okay, Mom, then tell your prime minister to let me in, ’cause I miss you so much.”

“Okay, Paul, I will.”

Then I cried. 

I wish it were that simple. In reality, it’s not, and we are all losing something. Depression is quite normal. But God sees all of your losses and collects all of your tears. “You number my wanderings; Put my tears into Your bottle; Are they not in Your book?” (Psalms 56:8, NKJV)

God promises that “Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.” (Psalms 126:5, NIV) He will show you mercy and love you through these losses. King David believed this with all of his heart: “But I pray to you, Lord, in the time of your favor; in your great love, O God, answer me with your sure salvation.” (Psalms 69:13, NIV)

Do you believe this? I believe it, and I’m asking God to get you through this. It doesn’t come from Him, but He can help you overcome it. 

Because you’re a miracle.

And I’m Paul Marc Goulet.