When You Feel Depressed
“Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD.” Psalm 31:24
Psalm 31 begins with a declaration of who David trusts in, followed by a cry for help and confidence that help is coming. It ends with an understanding that “The LORD preserves those who are true to him” (verse 23), and a reminder to “be strong and take heart.” You belong to God, and he will take care of you.
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
Depression is difficult no matter where you are, but it often feels worst when you feel alone. The good news is that you don’t have to do it alone, or through your own strength. God is with you. He will strengthen you and help you.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
When everything seems to have piled up on top of itself, and it seems like one bad thing after another, we can find peace in knowing we will have trouble, but we have a rescuer from that trouble: Jesus. He overcame so we don’t have to. He fought the battle for us.
“Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.” Psalm 55:22
When you feel the weight of your troubles, it can help to talk to God about them. He is stronger than we will ever be, and he can carry the weight so you don’t have to. But you first have to give it to him, and he will sustain you.
“I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.” Psalm 77:11-12
When you feel depressed, it can sometimes help to intentionally remind yourself of all the ways God has been faithful for you and others in the past. Whether you journal about how you’ve seen him work in your life or if you simply go back and read the Old Testament, the reminders of God’s faithfulness and the ways he fulfills his promises can help bring hope into the times when you feel the darkness the most.
“I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock, and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God.” Psalm 40:1-3
Lastly, I want to remind you that God hears you, lifts you up, and will put you on solid ground. In the future there will be joy again. Praise God for what he’s done and what he’s doing, even when you can’t see where he’s leading you. He is good, you are not alone, and there will be an end to your battle.
If you feel it would be helpful for you to talk to someone, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. You can request Care Ministry services here. You don’t have to face depression alone.
