Depression is an unchecked sadness with a murderous intent. It will take possession of the mind and destroy the life of anyone. It does not matter if you are involved directly or indirectly with depression; if you are in its path you will feel its fury. Depression has no regard of social, economic, or religious status. It sees no race, gender, or creed. It renders its victims helpless. It’s the executioner of hope, and where there is no hope (vision) the people perish. Proverbs 29:18 KJV Without mercy, depression will devour you, like a predator ravaging its prey. It’s violent and gruesome.
The remedy for depression is the praising of God. The Bible instructs us to clothe ourselves with the garment of praise when we have a spirit of heaviness (depression). Isaiah 61:3 NIV In that passage of scripture, a lot of exchanges take place, beauty for ashes, praise for heaviness, and joy for mourning. I refer to this as the Lord’s Exchange Program. What sets this program apart from any other exchange program (aside from the fact that it’s from God) is that it has free will terms. Normally, exchange programs are temporary with predetermined time restraints. However, our God has a flawless way of doing things and His exchange program allows you the option of permanently swapping the bad for the good, a sacred unveiling of light that has been shrouded in darkness.
I am not, by any means, implying that this exchange will be easy but with faith (in God) and a willing heart it can be accomplished. If it’s not easily given it will not be easily obtained; in other words, you have to fight for your freedom (whether it be depression, drugs, or destructive attitude, etc.). It’s a daily battle. After you obtain it, you must maintain it as well, which requires more work.
Although you may not be strong enough to fight depression on your own, you know the One who is…God. In your weakness God’s strength is perfect. When you are weak, it is then that you become strong (in Christ).
Written by Takiela Bynum
