Christian people don’t get depressed right? That is what I thought. So I stuffed my depression down, hoping no one would notice.It actually worked. People didn’t notice. But I did. I knew what I felt inside, and it wasn’t pleasant. I was a princess in the dark.
I have a feeling there are many princesses in the dark, afraid to let anyone know. Depression by it’s very nature can paralyze us. We think things will never get better, so why even try? If you are depressed, please seek help. Counseling (particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) combined with an anti-depressant medication is the most effective treatment. But what about the spiritual aspects of depression? We may never feel more separated from our Creator than when we are in the grips of depression.
1 Peter 2:9 tells us, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”
Depression tells you that you are alone – unwanted – an outcast. It is a disease that lies…
But dear sister, God’s word speaks truth. You are wanted. You are His. You BELOLNG to Him. Feelings of loneliness are just that – feelings. Feelings that hurt for sure – but they are not truth. You are part of a holy nation. You are one of many children. God chose to save you. The moment you enter into a relationship with Him, you are never alone again.
Depression wants to steal your joy – to leave you feeling isolated. You do not live in solitary confinement. Chains can and will be broken. Please choose to reach up and reach out.
His light is the only light that can shatter the dark. In fact, He CALLS you out of darkness into the light. It is your CALLING to move towards the light. A princess is not meant to sit in the dark.
Do you hear Him? Even if the negative thoughts are shrieking – His Word can speak louder. We must choose to place our focus on His truth. He calls us towards His light. Nothing is greater than Him – not even depression.
His purpose for you is to declare His praises, His excelencies. It doesn’t matter what you do, or what you have done. Life is about who you are. You are His – a chosen princess. Choose to be a princess stepping towards the light.
As somebody who has suffered several bouts of depression over the years, I can’t tell u how much I appreciate this blog post. Luved how u said His word can speak louder than the shrieking voices and the lies!! I’m printing this out to refer to when I feel myself start to slip back into the darkness. Thank u. Big love!
Oh Carol, I know the slipping feeling. And for sure those are the times we have to lean extra hard into His Word. Thank you for being so honest and sharing…it helps others so much when we get real about our lives. Hugs!!!!!
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Stephanie,
With all my heart thank you! I relate so well to your post! What words of hope!
TJ, thank you for your sweet comment. I am so glad we got to meet at She Speaks. Girl, you are such a blessing. Hugs!!!!
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Really…
Stephanie I battle with anxiety n depression and I’m on meds now but can’t afforf counseling so I’m leaning on Christ for complete restoration. Thank you for your blunt truth
Latoshia, counseling can be pricey for sure. In our community we have places that work on a sliding scale and some churches that do pastoral counseling for free. You might look and see what is available! And yes you are right – COMPLETE and the fulness of our restoration comes only through Christ. Amazing and beautiful Truth.
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I have struggled with depression for a really long time, and I so appreciate this post! Thank you for this!!
Lori, You have struggled and yet you are here girl. I’m betting God has an amazing story to share through your testimony sweet sister. And praying more and more healing to come. Hugs!!!!
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“His light is the only light that can shatter the dark.” Amen, Sister!
I love this–I once had someone tell me that if I were in a right relationship with God, or if I were a “true” Christian, well, then I surely could never be clinically depressed…what a sad, ignorant view. I truly appreciate this post and its ties to Biblical truth!
Remember when Jesus took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee into the Garden of Gethsemane to pray, and Jesus became very sorroful and troubled? (Matthew 26:36-46) Also again in Mathew 27 when Jesus was Crucified and darkness was over the land, Jesus cried out, “My God, My God why have you forsaken me? Sounds like depression to me!!!
Deborah- herdreams.org
Jesus was God in the flesh, but He had great troubles and sorrows. Should we expect anything less? No God said in this world we will have troubles, but he has overcome them. And with God on our side so shall we overcome by the Blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. Depression is Satans tool, not God’s. God has given us His word, His sword to combat the evil devices of Satan. Praise the Lord our God!!! He reighns in victory!!! God bless you Stephane
Thank you Stephanie. Beautifully meaningful post
Think I’m there right now.