Depression is a debilitating negative emotion. Many people need medication to survive the ravages of depression on our soul. Yet, these chemicals cause side effects in our body that negate their benefit for our soul. If we dissect depression, we can see the underlying issues that we may be able to tackle without medical intervention.
Symptoms of Depression:
· Irritability and moodiness
· A lack of restorative sleep
· Low motivation and energy
· Shame over our past; Fear of the future
· Intense grief over a major loss
· No interest in our appearance or activities
· Decline in concentration and memory
· Binging or starving our body
· Anxiety and panic attacks
· Harming our self physically in an attempt to lessen our emotional pain
One of the main contributors to depression is anxiety. We entertain lies from Satan, and our own human fears as if they are happening now - when most likely they will never occur at all. Worry weighs us down, but encouraging our self and others lifts us right up out of the depression (Matthew 6:27; Proverbs 12:25).
Grief over a major loss is another source for deep depression. During these times, essential oils or herbs can help to keep our soul strong until it recovers from this loss. Of course, medication is also available via a doctor’s prescription, but side-effects are a real problem.
In my bouts of depression as a Melancholy, I learned that it attempts to overcome me when I put my trust in something or someone other than God. If we commit our thoughts, words, and choices to God, He always rescues us from troubles and gives us access to His power, authority, and wisdom (Proverbs 3:5-6; Psalm 34:17, 37:5, 55:22).
When we come to the understanding that nothing can separate us from the love of God – not even the powers of demonic forces – our faith grows by giant steps, and we enjoy more serenity than ever before (Romans 8:38-39). Jesus abides in us and with us as we trust only in Him, and our roots grow deeper into God’s love which helps us to withstand the fiercest of storms in our soul (Ephesians 3:17).
Prayer:
Father God, teach us that when depression hits, it is helpful to scrutinize the root cause of this overwhelming emotion. Then we can give the cause of this current pain to You in prayer, so we can gain Your understanding and intervention and power to overcome or resolve it (2 Timothy 1:7, 2:7. Remind us not to worry about the issues in our life, but to leave them in Your capable hands as we cultivate a more eternal mindset (Matthew 6:25).
We want to take Your yoke on our shoulders, rather than those of our own making. This allows us to find Your rest in the mundane and horrific issues of life (Matthew 6:33-34, 11:28-29; Luke 12:25-26). As we thank You even for the negative aspects of our life, You always give us Your peace in every situation, because You are with us at all times (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; 2 Thessalonians 3:16; Hebrews 13:5).
Thoughts for the Day:
God’s peace rules over our heart as we thank Him and rejoice in our negative experiences (Colossians 3:15; John 14:27; 1 John 4:18). As we hang out with Jesus as a branch on the Vine, we accomplish everything He calls us to do. He will bear much fruit for His Kingdom in us and through us (John 15:5).
