For several years I battled depression and thoughts of suicide. It kept me bound and isolated. I didn't want to go out and socialize and it was a struggle just to keep up with my household duties and the care for my young daughter. There were many contributors to my depression, some were of my own making with poor health practices, some were the influences of outside voices and many times I got caught up in listening to the voice of the enemy.
When people asked me, "How are you today?", I always put my big fake smile and said, "I'm doing fine, thank you." I covered up my loneliness and depression really well. Thankfully, God in his mercy intervened and to help me get my spirit, soul and body back on track so I could begin to enjoy the 'abundant life' he promised in us. John 10:10 (AMP) says, “The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I (Jesus) came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).”
What's robbing you of the joy of the Lord? Were the holidays a difficult time for you? Sometimes the change of weather, the lack of sun, family obligations, financial stress, or memories of loss through death or divorce can all lead to seasonal and/or chronic depression. You may even be struggling with feeling a little 'blue' or you may have depression that seems to be taking over your life. Don't give up! There are some things you can do practically and spiritually to enhance your mood.
Look at what your eating. One HUGE help in managing depressing is to control your intake of refined sugar and processed foods. The body and the brain are not designed to accept these foods in large mass doses. Sugar has depressant chemical qualities and scientific research states it can be as addictive and Jack Daniels or cocaine. I can relate to that! Do you ever find your mind wandering, taking inventory of what might be in the pantry, is the ice cream in the freezer calling your name. Maybe you have even been driven out of your home to search for the goodies that were waiting for you at the convenience store a just a few minutes drive away. I've been there!
To combat this problem have some lower calorie options on hand, such at pitted dates, delicious fresh fruit, frozen Greek yogurt or a piece of dark chocolate with a teaspoon of natural peanut butter to take those sweet cravings away.
Exercise can help. Exercise releases good endorphins that can certainly bring a feeling of happiness to your brain. I have had many doctor referred clients that were actually prescribed exercise as part of their medical program. I've worked with individuals ranging from mildly depressed to bipolar and in all but one case the level of anti depressant was either reduced or eliminated by participating in regular exercise three times per week for 30-45 minutes.
How often do you get together with others? The enemy loves to work on our mind when we are alone and feeling sorry for ourselves. Initially, you may have to force yourself to be get out of the house and be with others. Attending worship services, Bible study or a small group at your local church is a wonderful place to form meaningful relationships with others. We are encouraged in Hebrews 10:25 to not forsake gathering together with other believers. The author of this book knew that we needed strength and friendships that form among a body of believers.
Search your heart for unconfessed sin. 2 Corinthians 7:10 (ESV) For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death. Sin can weigh down your spirit, sometimes to the point that it feels like death inside. Remember that God's grace is sufficient for you, so if you confess sin, he is faithful to cleanse your heart from sin.
Check your Word level. Are you spending the appropriate amount of time with the Father to get His daily message for your life? Neglecting God's Word can certainly contribute to a sense of hopelessness and helplessness. Here are a few scriptures to meditate on concerning a joyful heart.
- Proverbs 17:22 (KJV) A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.
- Proverbs 15:13 (ESV) A glad heart makes a cheerful face, but by sorrow of heart the spirit is crushed.
- Isaiah 61:3 (KJV) To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.
- Psalms 16:9 (KJV) Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.
- Psalms 33:21 (NIV) In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.
Jesus is waiting to help you with your sadness and burdens. Would you be willing to lay your sorrows at His feet? Pray this prayer with me;
Lord Jesus, I'm tired of feeling this bad. I recognize that I need to come to you because I am weary and burdened and I want to experience your rest. I can no longer carry the crushing weight of my depression on my own. I give the burden of my misery to You. Show me the path, show me what I need to do to get out from under this heartache and pain.
