The D Word

A devotional to kick off your week

The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.

Psalm 9:9 NIV

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Around this time of year, the “D word” comes up a lot. Depression. This low feeling describes the state many find themselves in during, what Taylor Swift called, an “endless February.”

For some, depression is seasonal. The days are long and dark, and the charm of cold weather has worn off. Without sunlight, we can start to feel low.

For others, depression is situational. Open social media, check the news, or pay the Christmas credit card bill. The reasons to feel scared, hopeless, and down are plenty.

There’s also a depression that runs much deeper than what a lack of sunlight and Facebook scroll can generate. It’s a kind of depression that brings constant ache, a shadow that won’t shift. It’s hard and complex, and it’s not easy. Even the strongest of faith face times where their brains won’t cooperate with the idea of getting out of bed. For those struggling with severe depression, you are not alone.

Faith that survives acknowledges depression.

When lowly feelings come, it’s important to recognize them and be honest about how we feel. Psalm 9:9 says the Lord is a refuge when we struggle. He comes close when we’re in pain, including mental strife.

In many faith communities, mental health struggles like anxiety and depression can seem like taboo topics. There are often unspoken rules about how to act and feel. “Good Christians” who’ve experienced the power of Jesus and walk with the Holy Spirit shouldn’t feel depressed … at least that’s what we silently tell ourselves and one another when shame takes hold.

But these are unhelpful beliefs rooted in enemy lies that separate us from God’s care. Two things can be true at the same time. We can be devout yet anxious. We can believe in God’s love yet wrestle with depression.

Some people find deliverance through prayer alone. In fact, I have a dear friend whose intercessory ministry has helped many people experience this breakthrough. It’s incredible. Others have found relief through medication and psychotherapy. A lot of people use both ways of support; it doesn’t have to be either-or. God uses numerous avenues to bring healing. The first step is being open and honest with ourselves, and with him, about how we feel and what we need.

Faith is not the antidote to despair, loneliness, and sadness. Faith is the constant reminder, the never-changing truth, that says, “Despite how we feel today, don’t give up hope. Healing is possible.”

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Breath Prayer

Inhale: Come close…

Exhale: … when I’m low.

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