“This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil.” Heb. 6:19, NASB
Surely we all know someone who struggles with depression. Maybe you are that person.
The world offers all kinds of solutions for depression: medication, positive-thinking strategies—even addictions to various substances or pastimes. While medication certainly helps numerous people, I wonder if we sometimes forget the power of God’s Word to soothe, to renew our minds, to focus us on Christ. HE is our wonderful Counselor, our HOPE that anchors the soul.
Humbly I fully recognize I’m no expert on this matter. I hold no degrees or significance in this field. Yet, “I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day” (2 Tim. 1:12).
Friends, I struggled with depression during my younger years. Periodically I’d awaken in the morning weighed down with sadness. Though my bouts usually eased after a few days, there were times I thought of taking my own life. Even as a Christian who knew and loved Christ, I contemplated the thought that everyone would be better off without me–particularly my family.
Whispers like these are from the very pit of hell.
As God has lovingly, patiently sanctified me and grown our relationship, depression wondrously has lifted off of me. It’s not that I never experience lows anymore, but the Lord has taught me how to respond—He’s equipped me to fight back. POWER exudes from His Word. I’m not trying to provide a pat answer or speak wearisome Christianese. I’m sharing truth I’ve experienced. And I long for you or your loved one to also experience the healing balm of God’s Word:
- The Word is a weapon (Eph. 6:17)
- The Word cleanses us (Eph. 5:26)
- The truth sets us free (John 8:32)
God’s heart, which He wants us to know, is poured out on every page of the Bible. He desires that we understand His intentions towards us … for us. When everything in this life goes wrong, He’s still in control. He remains faithful. He keeps His promises.
Christ anchors us.
Do you feel like you’re being tossed aimlessly? Are you battling to keep your head above the merciless waves of depression?
CHRIST, the reason and substance of our hope, leads us into intimate relationship with God the Father. Let the Lord Jesus Christ anchor you. HE is sufficient, and HE ALONE satisfies. Trust Him with your heart and follow His leading. He’ll show you what direction to take, what help to pursue. He’ll never leave you or let you drown. Turn to Him, my friend, and find Him steady as a rock in the midst of tumultuous waters.
Be anchored in Christ.
photo credit: Cultsoftheshadow via photo pin cc (images on arm removed)
Thank you so much for your words of honesty. We so often think Christians are immune to depression and heart ache, but that’s not true. The Word of God pours into the soul giving us comfort from the God of ALL Comfort. Blessings ~ Chris
Hi Chris,
You’re welcome, and thanks for your affirmation about the comfort of God’s Word. So true! I appreciate your visit to my site ~ please come again.
In Christ’s Love,
Emily
Emily:
What a beautiful and transparent testimony. There are so many who struggle with depression, and I am sure they are encouraged by your complete honesty and willingness to be open. God is SO good in how He uses our trials and struggles to not just encourage others but to bring us into a more intimate relationship with Him.
Love you dear sister! – Lisa
Dear Lisa,
Thank you so much for your kind comment. I totally agree about God using our trials to draw us into intimacy with Him. He turns difficulties into blessings by meeting us in those dark places. Love you too, so much! Emily
“I’m not trying to provide a pat answer or speak wearisome Christianese.” EW quote. Just want to comment on this wonderful quote, I laughed and thought what a wonderful word to use! Laughter is good medicine! Soothes the soul. You opened up and shared and that makes you great as a writer and a real sister! I deeply appreciate your sharing the wounds Jesus healed! His word surely is ointment that heals. God Bless you Emily Whitcomb. We were all lost before Jesus found us, and once we are found, we know there is no place else to go!
Thanks, dear Melinda. I appreciate your visit to my blog and your thoughtful comment. To God be all the glory for His marvelous works in us and His loving heart towards us. Blessings to you in Christ, sister!
In His love,
Emily