This is from one of my journal writings dated the 21st of October 2021.
As someone who struggled with anxiety, stress, and depression throughout my teenage years and twenties, I regret not realizing sooner that God could offer a lasting solution to mental challenges. Looking back, I wish I had pursued Jesus more fervently. Understanding the role of depression in a believer’s journey transformed my life and reshaped my perspective. The adversary utilizes depression and other mental health struggles to lead believers astray from the Word, silence their voices, obscure their blessings, and amplify the emptiness within them. Many individuals attempt to fill this void with temporary fixes like alcohol, drugs, parties, or sex – none of which provide lasting contentment. The truth remains that only through Jesus Christ and the guidance of the Holy Spirit can this void be truly satisfied.
Depression can be likened to being trapped in a large, dark hole with no doors or windows, where one exists in a floating state. Everything appears grey, devoid of color and beauty. Today feels unreal, and the thought of tomorrow is unwelcome as you cling onto the good memories of yesterday. In this state, a believer may begin to doubt God’s presence, His power to deliver them from any circumstance. Questions about the foundation and validity of their faith arise, leading to an exploration of alternative sources for spiritual fulfillment in an attempt to fill the void within. The zeal for God diminishes, resulting in backsliding as fellowship with Him dwindles. Activities are used as coping mechanisms to navigate life while trying to come to terms with oneself.
I navigated through the aforementioned states, praying myself back to life. Not only did I return to the land of the living, but also to Christ. Jesus resurrected me from a state of walking deadness. God revived me when I reached a point of exhaustion and sought to rediscover the original girl He created – one who pursued His heart fervently. This was the girl who found joy in dwelling in the presence of the Most High God. When I grew weary of my depression and self-pity, I realized it was time for significant changes. These changes involved immersing myself in reading the Word, engaging in prayer and fasting, and continuously seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit as my Helper and Advocate.
Through taking small steps of faith towards God, relearning intentional prayer practices, He met me more than halfway on this transformative journey back to spiritual rejuvenation and connection with Him.
You will understand God’s presence through His powerful acts (Smoke rose from his nostrils; consuming fire came from his mouth, burning coals blazed out of it. He parted the heavens and descended; dark clouds were beneath his feet. He rode on cherubim and soared on wings of wind Psalms 18: 8 – 10), as a peace surpassing understanding guards your heart. This tranquility isn’t due to circumstances shifting but by relinquishing control to my life’s owner.
Recognize this peace as unattainable from earthly sources. Daily tasks become lighter, bearing joy in knowing your future is secure and destined for success.
Let us therefore confidently approach the throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16), knowing Christ fulfills promises. We need not worry but present requests to God (Philippians 4:6-8). The peace in these scriptures is available for all believers, surpassing understanding. When God’s peace envelops you, depression dissipates effortlessly. Though challenges may remain, our God reigns above them from heavenly realms. His ever-present help sustains us in every moment of need.
