Depression Needs to Be Acknowledged
The biggest mistake that believers make is feeling ashamed of and hiding their depression. Sometimes, we believe a lie: that as believers in Christ, we can never feel disillusioned, disappointed, or unhappy. Such thinking causes Christians to hide their negative feelings from their family, their church, and even God. However, darkness is where sin dwells and evil triumphs. Light overcomes darkness. Sin or negative feelings can be overcome by God’s light.
The first way to conquer disillusionment, disappointment, or depression is by bringing these emotions into the light. In other words, we need to be honest with ourselves about our feelings. We must also be honest with God. He is not displeased with us when we are disappointed or disillusioned. The devil lies to us by telling us to hide our negative feelings in shame. However, we should expose them.
Satan prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking whom to devour. Satan is a nasty player; Scripture reminds us to be aware of his strategies. He hits us when we are down, alone, and isolated. When we hide our depression in shame, the devil comes and delivers the final blow. That is why the worst outcomes result when we handle our emotional struggles alone. We need to acknowledge when we are depressed, accept this state of mind as part of our human condition, and seek help.
Do not be ashamed of feeling down, disappointed, or depressed. Do not feel afraid to confess that you are experiencing these emotions. Go to God in prayer and tell Him how you feel. Also, tell your family or your trusted friends. Do not be embarrassed to ask for prayer and ask for help. Scripture tells us to ask, and we will receive. We can be honest with others about our needs, including the emotional ones.
So, do not isolate yourself. Do not hesitate to pick up the phone and call a Christian friend. Tell him or her, “You know what? I am discouraged today.” It is OK not to be OK. Do not be afraid to admit that to others around you. Do not be embarrassed to use the word depression, either. If you are depressed, tell someone about it. Be transparent. This kind of transparency allows others to help you and to speak God’s truth into your life.
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