Jeremiah, known as the “weeping prophet,” wrote The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? (Jeremiah 17:9). If we are honest with ourselves, there is an abundance of truth in this scripture. Our hearts can lead us astray if we aren’t careful. Our heart can convince us that something is truly right and noble while our mind and the Holy Spirit that dwells within us pleads us to watch, wait, seek His will, and pray before making a decision. For someone who struggles with depression, it is our heart that begins to weigh heavily upon us. It is our heart pulling on our minds that changes how we perceive ourselves. Again, I believe David knew exactly what the struggle with depression is like as he penned the words, Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD (Psalms 27:14).
David also wrote, Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD (Psalms 31:24) and for me, this has been a great comfort as I have dealt with the pains of depression. I’ve taken great comfort in knowing that the Lord will sustain me and carry me through the battle with depression. Remembering this scripture, I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well (Psalms 139:14). Somehow knowing the Lord knows me that intimately seems to help some. The reason our salvation is not based on emotion is because our hearts can be easily deceived. Our hearts can become fascinated by the things of the world or can become distracted by feelings of hopelessness and despair. Our hearts can be filled with doubts about the Lord’s love for us, cause us to ask questions such as, “where’s God now?” or “how could God be so cruel?”
Everyone who suffers from depression is not the same…
Sadly, it is inevitable to have the conversation with even the most well-meaning person, just to hear them respond, “so-and-so had depression but they are doing better now since…” In reality, I’ve learned that depression is unique to each individual and a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. There are some that suffer from depression because of a chemical imbalance in the brain while others it is the result of abuse. Some have it set in as the result of circumstances of life, while others are having to deal with the aftermath of a life-changing injury. Some people can get by and work through it on their own while others may need medication, therapy, or some combination of treatments. As I share my experiences, I think one of the most challenging things has been is trying to keep the proper perspective when others want to immediately compare me to the others they know with depression as they are trying to encourage me. Yes, I am aware that depression can be overcome; no, depression cannot be cured. Depression must be managed.
For me, learning the cause of my depression simply made it easier for me to manage it. I’ve had to come to terms with the abuse I endured as a child. I’ve had to come to terms with my injuries and disabilities from military service, and have had to come to terms that sometimes it is the people who we love the most, such as family, that inflicts the deepest wounds against us. I’ve had to come to terms with two failed marriages, of which my depression did play a part of the problems in them. These are what contributes to my depression; at times all it takes is a certain sound, a smell, or anything else that serves as a reminder and takes me back to those times. I still struggle with it – with all this, as I am right now as I share this post with you. By no means is it an easy fight but as the apostle Paul wrote, And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me (2 Corinthians 12:9). God’s grace will help me through it and He will get the glory and honor.
