Depression is real

"How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day? How long will my enemy have the upper hand?" Psalm 13:2 NLT

From the outside, 29-year-old Jonathan Grey, a professional runner for Adidas who found his greatest success in cross country but had recently competed in the USATF Marathon Championships (running 2:20:08), seemed to have it all. He was young, talented and loved by many. So what his brother, Matt, posted on Facebook Friday evening didn't seem to make sense, "Today will be the hardest day of my life... My brother Jon Grey ended his life today and lost his battle with depression." Sadly though, this story is not uncommon. Many people that we know, love and come into contact with on a daily basis are suffering from depression - with suicide being the second leading cause of death for those between the ages of 15-44. 

 

And if you think depression doesn't affect Christians, think again. The Bible gives us many examples of believers who suffered from bouts of sorrow and deep despair. In fact, David, a mighty warrior and a man after God's own heart, poured his feelings out to the Lord on many occasions expressing his hopelessness. In Psalm 13, he cried, "How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul, with sorrow in my heart every day?" You can be sure that David was hurting inside - you can just hear it in his words. But by opening up, honestly confessing and expressing his pain and feelings to the Lord, David was able to experience God’s comfort, reclaim his lost joy and once again sing His praises. 

Perhaps you, or someone you know, is experiencing prolonged feelings of severe despondency and dejection today? Perhaps you've even prayed over the situation and the sorrow remains or even gets deeper? If that's you my friend, won't you reach out and talk to someone today? Sharing your feelings is often the first step to recovery. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for understanding our struggles and our pain. Help us to realize that our feelings of sorrow don't make you think less of us or indicate that we are failing in our Christian walk. Help us to know that sadness is a normal part of life but, if it doesn't go away or gets worse, could indicate something much deeper. Give us the discernment to know when we need to seek outside help and the strength to pursue it. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Storm inside of you - Veronica Ballestrini
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQkSkBgX5cc

Note - If you or a loved one is struggling with suicidal thoughts and tendencies, please get help. Don’t try to face this on your own. There is hope and healing, and there are many who will journey through this trial with you. Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) at any time day or night 24/7, to talk to someone who understands. Or go online at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org for more information and help.