For those who have never struggled with depression, it may be difficult to fully understand how debilitating it can be. Depression is more than just a long time of sadness; it can take over every aspect of a person’s daily life.
For me, depression felt like a prison. I felt alone in my own world like there were no windows and only stagnant air. Within this prison, I felt the presence of spirits of hopelessness, despair and sadness. I longed to sleep the day away knowing it would only make me feel worse. I would cry out to God and wonder why He didn’t hear me. I prayed that God would take me away to be with Him where I wouldn’t feel like I was. God was there, I just hadn’t taken the opportunity to truly turn everything over to Him. I was so used to wallowing, in a sick way, it became comfortable to me.
Regardless whether your depression was triggered by genetics or events, it is a real issue that God does not want us in bondage to. The Bible tells us that the joy of the Lord is our strength (Nehemiah 8:10). I know this might sound a bit odd to some, but what I found really helpful when I was depressed, was to sing praises to the Lord. Even when I didn’t feel like doing it, I would. I really believe as I praise God there is something that happens supernaturally. The Bible says in James 4:7 and 8, “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”(NKJV) What better way to make the devil flee than to draw in the presence of the Lord. Psalm 22:3 tells us that God inhabits the praises of His people. We’re also told, “What fellowship has light with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14).
God wants to set you free from depression. Not all depression is circumstantial and may require professional medical help. This was the case with me as well. Once I was on the right medication, I was able to see more clearly and the glory went to God. If you are dealing with depression right now, please know that God wants to help you. You need to be willing to trade in your pain for His joy. His hand is there ready for you to take hold of it.
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