Dealing with Depression

The angel of the Lord returned and touched him, saying, “Get up and eat, for the journey ahead is long.” Elijah got up, ate, and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God. - 1 Kings 19:7-8

The Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.” - 1 Kings 19:11a

There are very difficult stages in life, and in some of them, it seems there is no way out or hope. We all experience this at some point. Anyone who has faced such a moment knows what it feels like to be under immense pressure, feeling a heavy burden on the soul. Yes, depression can also knock on our door. When that happens, we have two choices: to flee or to face it.

The prophet Elijah went through a severe depression and his initial intention was to give up. But God showed him that he still had a long journey ahead: he needed to continue! Elijah obeyed, recognized that the Lord was present, and sustained him. He could surely trust and depend on his God. The same goes for you! Get up and seek the presence of God. Believe that with Christ, you can deal with every situation that troubles you...

Face depression in the presence of the Lord:

• Believe that God is present! - Ask the Holy Spirit for help to confront and overcome this depressive phase.

• Emotions by faith - Even if you don’t "feel" well, fight depression by activating your faith in Christ.

• Seek (read and listen to) the Word of God - Turn away from self-help books. What you need is help from above.

• Pray, cry, and pray a little more... - Pour out your heart before God with tears and prayers. He wants to hear you and encourage you!

• Seek true joy - Fill your heart with psalms and praise! Connect the sound, sing, worship, and dance for God...

• Share your problem with a mature believer and ask them to help you in prayer.

• Be grateful! Look around and thank God for what He has already done in your life and for what you have.

• If necessary, seek medical help or a specialist - There are chronic cases of depression where the assistance of a psychiatrist or therapist will be important. There are many Christian psychologists who can help you through this phase.

Remember that depression is a phase. Be encouraged! Christ has overcome the world, and by faith, you will overcome too.

To pray:

Lord, help me face this moment of depression with courage and confidence in You. Grant me the faith to move forward today, even with tears, but filled with hope and renewed strength. In the midst of this storm, help me to depend more on You and to believe that You are present with me at all times. To You, I pray and give thanks, in Jesus’ name, Amen.