Ever feel like you’re the only one struggling? Think again. Even prominent biblical figures like David experienced profound discouragement. David chose to strengthen himself in the Lord when faced with immense distress. While sadness may be a part of your journey, it does not define you. You are navigating a season of difficulty. God is always ready to meet us in our struggles, and there is hope for healing and restoration.
Depression is defined as feelings of severe despondency and self-doubt. There is a distinction between depression and discouragement (an internal struggle) and oppression (an external force like spiritual warfare.) But both of them can impact our ability to do ministry.
Now, before we get too far, let me remind you that I am not a mental health professional, and I am not at all minimizing the medical side of this, the mental side of this. That is not my intent at all. I’m not trying to minimize things, but I’m also not over-maximizing. Let’s seek God on the matter. What does the Bible have to say? How can we come to terms with these feelings?
I’m sorry, I don’t know half of what you’re going through. I genuinely don’t know how difficult it is. I don’t know what family things you have, what people are doing to you, what they’re saying about you, how they’re treating you, or how unfair it is.
So, what do we do? How do I handle these feelings of discouragement? We acknowledge them, express them, and tell ourselves that we have to take them to the Lord. There is no human solution. It is essential to bring these feelings to God in prayer. Look at David; despite being greatly distressed and facing threats from those around him, he found strength in the Lord.
Psalm 43:5 (NKJV) Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me?
Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God.
Bring all your feelings to the Lord. Be open and honest with Him. He can handle it…. He already knows it all anyway—but there is something freeing about saying it out loud. You can also write your prayers to the Lord in a journal. This practice not only helps us articulate our feelings but also allows us to process our emotions in a constructive way.
The Bible is filled with stories of men and women who faced deep sorrow and yet found hope and strength in their relationship with God. Feelings of discouragement are not uncommon, even among faithful people.
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or discouragement, remember that you are not alone, and there is always hope and help available. Don’t let discouragement define you. You are a precious child of God!
