Freedom from Depression
One of Satan’s deadliest tools is depression. Sometimes it is the result of a chemical imbalance which requires professional care, however all too often it is caused by a spiritual issue. If the devil can keep you in the darkness and gloom, it is easier for him to control your emotions, making you feel alone, isolated, and hopeless. When you are depressed, your thoughts are distorted and not to be trusted. You tell yourself that no one loves you, you’re ugly, disgusting, and worthless. But that's exactly what the devil wants you to feel and think. It is part of his evil plan to steal not only your joy, but your power to resist him. Satan is quite clever and doesn’t throw everything at you all at once. First he hits you with disappointment, lets that simmer until it turns into discouragement, which then boils into full-fledged depression. The longer you remain in this depressive state, the deeper you sink into the darkness, further and further away from God. And just like that, the devil wins! But God wants to give you joy, peace and hope. He tells us in John 10:10, "I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." The only way to win the battle over depression is to win the war over your feelings. To do this requires God’s strength. Stay in His Holy Word, listening to His still, small voice saying, “Hang on to Me - I’ve got you! You are my child and I love you with an everlasting love. You are My creation. You are beautiful and wonderfully made. You can come out of the darkness, for with My strength . . . all things are possible.” Take back control of your feelings by claiming Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” At the very first onset of disappointment, before it develops into anything more, follow God’s advice in James 4:7, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Don’t allow depression to rule your life. Send the devil packing by giving God the power to shine His light within you - forcing all darkness to disappear.
TEXT:
Psalm 30:11,
You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, (Psalms 30:11, ESV)
Psalm 40:2,
He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. (Psalms 40:2, ESV)
Matthew 11:28-30,
28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28, ESV)
Psalm 23:4
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. (Psalms 23:4, ESV)
© Brenda Walsh Ministries www.brendawalsh.com
