Defeating DepressionSmakprov

       Many times as Christians, we believe we should be “stronger than that.” Often from past teaching or from a lack of understanding, we are convinced that, as Christians, we should not come under the attack of depression or hopelessness. On the other hand, unbelievers sometimes feel as if they deserve to be in darkness because they don’t believe in a higher power or they are not “living right.” Sometimes we are embarrassed to talk about our feelings of sadness and despair and deep, deep depression. And to make matters worse, some of our Christian counter-parts accuse us of not seeking God enough or of having sin in our life. 

       As a result, we keep our struggles private and never experience the inner peace and joy that God has for us. We might have a slight glimpse of our future journey, but we can’t enjoy each day. So many people, regardless of religious beliefs or backgrounds, don’t realize that they need emotional healing.

      I call this lack of knowledge, this lack of acceptance and of understanding, the Cover-up Scheme. This practice of covering up emotional pain will slow our journey toward our destiny, or even cause us to self-destruct if it is left unresolved. In scripture such pain resulted for some people in continuous suffering for generations. The scriptures call it “the broken hearted.” Elijah, a powerful man of God, was brokenhearted and wished for death. David was brokenhearted and wished for death. Saul was tormented, brokenhearted and wished for death.

       The bottom line is depression is not new. It is not something to hide, nor something of which you should be ashamed. I believe the Bible gives detail of the depression that these men of the Bible went through to show us that people of God can experience these emotional pitfalls, but we can also see that God will pull us through. Scripture says one way to begin your journey to healing is to pray and focus on God—that higher power who can and will keep your mind at peace if you continuously think of Him. Meditate on the Word even if you don’t feel like it. Constantly praise Him for your progress, even if you don’t really see it just yet. You are walking by faith. Turn to prayer and turn to scripture. Allow God to keep his promises to you.