The Spirit of Heavinessનમૂનો

Depression or Spiritual Warfare?

Although depression has been linked to genetic makeup, beyond this factor exists a negative spiritual force the adversary employs to oppress a person’s body, soul and mind.

The goal of this evil spirit is to burden an individual until they grow weary in praying, fasting and exercising faith. It is a subtle spirit that masks itself as a sluggish gloom that overwhelms and wears a person down until it completely robs them of love, joy and peace. This vice is most popularly referenced in the book of Isaiah. There, the prophet proclaims the acts of the soon coming Messiah.

“[He will] appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness, that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He might be glorified.” –Isaiah 61:3 NIV

This scripture gives us a brief summary of the acts and ministry of Jesus. In essence, He promises to give those who are overcome with sorrow a glimmering ray of hope. How is this hope characterized? Like a phoenix rising from destruction, like a sweet fragrance used to anoint those who were once drenched in tears, like a comforting article of clothing that will take away the heavy burden.