Freedom from depression is possible

Have years of depression caused you to believe God no longer has a purpose for you? Are you convinced your dreams of success will never come true? Do you fear you’ll never have healthy relationships again?

I’ve been there. So depressed that I couldn’t possibly envision God using me as a blogger and newspaper columnist. So disappointed in myself that I stopped believing I could accomplish any of the goals I’d set for myself. So needy that most of my friends found it hard to hang out with me. 

Life became more and more overwhelming. Despite my years of emotional turmoil and suicide attempts, however, God never gave up on me – hopelessly depressed, loser me. 

God will never give up on you, either.

As I write this, I’m asking God to give me words to encourage you – words that will get you past this fearful, uncertain, hopeless moment. I want to assure you, based on Philippians 1:6 (AMPC), that you have a powerfully compassionate Father who will never stop working in you.

“And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He Who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ [right up to the time of His return], developing [that good work] and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you.”

God knows you. He knows your strengths, and He knows your weaknesses. At this very moment, while you’re wondering if you have a reason to live, God is working in you. He wants you to experience success (spiritual and otherwise). To enjoy healthy relationships. 

To laugh again.

Right now, this may seem more like a faraway dream than a real possibility. It seemed that way to me, too. I prayed and prayed for stability, but it didn’t happen overnight. It took years. In time, however, as I got counseling and continued to cling to God’s Word, I experienced small steps of victory. Eventually, I was free from depression and suicidal thoughts. (I’ve written several articles about this on my blog.)

God wants to give you stability by giving you purpose and significance. Spend time with Him. Read His Word as often as you can. And every time your mind begins to race with despairing thoughts, remind yourself that God will never stop until He brings His work to full completion … in you. 

(If you’re in a mental health crisis, dial 988 and speak to a trained counselor. This nationwide Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7.)

Sheryl H. Boldt, a Franklin County resident, is the author of the blog, www.TodayCanBeDifferent.net. Connect with her at SherylHBoldt@gmail.com.