Daily Companion  | 19 August

OVERCOMING DEPRESSION

"Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance" - Psalms 42:5.

He was described as "an incredibly kind, gentle and compassionate young man whose sweet spirit was encouragement and comfort to many.” The son of Rick Warren (a renowned American pastor), Matthew was diagnosed at age 8 with depression and took his own life at 27. That is how deep, depression can go.

Depression is a common experience that affects people from all walks of life, including Christians. Children can have depression too. Despite a life full of strong faith and devotion, Christians are not immune to the struggles of depression. Depression can manifest in various ways, including feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest. Christians may experience a loss of joy in their faith when prayers are unanswered or targets are unmet. They lack the motivation to serve God more. Lack of motivation is a cardinal sign of depression.

Introvert personality, chronic illness, hormonal change (especially among women (40-55 years), sleep deprivation, grief, financial struggles, sense of failure and family or relationship problems can trigger depressive episodes in Christians. 

Elijah had his own moment of depression and suicidal thoughts too. “I have had enough Lord, he said. Take my life, I am not better than my ancestors.” 1 Kings 19:4. Job experienced a critical level of depression coupled with suicidal thoughts when he was tried by Satan. Many Christians are beginning to seek help for their mental illness. So you are not alone

Beloved, in order to overcome depression, it is important to seek help and support. Acknowledge it before God in prayer and meditation on His Word. Seek professional counsellors, Christian counsellors or a trained pastor's advice. Take care of yourself physically, and mentally by maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and practising relaxation techniques that best suites you. Seek joy and practice gratitude. Have in faith.

It is essential to break the stigma surrounding mental health within the Christian community. Depression should not be seen as a sign of weak faith or spiritual deficiency. Remember, you are not alone, and there is always hope for healing and restoration.

Today’s Recite:  For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. - 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)

Today’s Morning Prayer: Heavenly Father, You said in Psalm 55:22 we should cast our burden on You, and You promised to sustain us and never allow the righteous to be moved." I come to You with all my burdens: physical, mental and financial burden. I ask you Lord to heal me. Grant me soundness of mind. Grant Your grace. Hear my cry and bring answers to my long prayers. I ask that You help those going through depression; heal and restore them For in Jesus name. Amen.  

Today’s Hymn: OUT OF MY BONDAGE

Today’s ReadMe:  Lamentation 1 - 5