I had my first real experience with depression the year I prayed for more joy. In January, I was fired up to pray that 2009 would be the year of joy. I expected a great year, but by March, depression set in.
“Really? Are you kidding me?” I asked God.
I’m usually an upbeat, optimistic person, so I didn’t know how to react. As weeks passed, the cloud of depression only settled more firmly over me. I read every scripture I could think of, but many days I was near tears. James 1:2 said, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds,” and I told myself to count it all joy. But who could feel happy about being depressed? I struggled for months with feelings of hopelessness.
Although I probably needed a counselor, I never saw one. However, I had a supportive husband and a few close friends who listened to me. Ironically, my depression lasted 5 months during what was supposed to be my “year of joy.” Today I realize I learned more about joy that year than ever before or since…
You can follow this link to join me on Crosswalk.com, where I’m sharing 10 Ways Christians Can Fight Depression. Because hope is always around the corner.
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Also linking up with Kelly Balarie’s #RaRaLinkup, Jennifer Dukes Lee’s #TellHisStory, Holley Gerth’s Coffee for your Heart, Crystal Storms’ #HeartEncouragement, Salt and Light with Alisa Nicaud, and Arabah Joy’s Grace and Truth. Check out these communities for more encouragement.
Thank you so much for this! I’ve experienced depression in different seasons of my life and I’ve found that staying close to God and His Word has been the best healer for me.
Thanks so much for sharing that, Karen. I’m with you on that one.
These are such wonderful tips, Betsy. I’ve struggled with depression my entire life and have felt it fighting for me again lately as I navigate mothering from afar (my oldest in college 😉 ). I love the idea of a personal joy project. I’m going to try that out. As you said, the simple act of buying flowers can really help.
Praying for you now, Candace, in your journey of mothering from afar. I know that well! My oldest is in college too. Blessings and grace to you as you embark on a personal joy project.
I have been struggling of late too after i had serious issues with my boyfriend and even felt like they are soo hard to solve😭
I am so sorry, Emily. Praying for you now. Those are hard issues. May the Lord show himself faithful.