Knowing God's Word

It is so important to know scripture. When you are depressed, you are bombarded with lies from the enemy. Depression is an illness of the mind and that is Satan's battlefield of choice. It's easy to believe that what you are thinking is reality, because it is your reality at the time. But it's not the truth. In order to recognize the lies and combat them you need to know God's truth.

Prov 6:20-23 says:
My son, keep your father's commands and do not forsake your mother's teaching. (God's commands and teaching) Bind them upon your heart forever; fasten them around your neck. (make them part of who you are) When you walk, they will guide you; when you sleep, they will watch over you; when you awake, they will speak to you. For these commands are a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the corrections of discipline are the way to life.
(italics are my addition)

In the pitch black of depression, we need a lamp...we need the light which comes from God's Word.

Though He Slay Me

I have often looked to Job's example while suffering. Job 13:15 has gotten me through some of the darkest days. It has helped me to hang onto my faith in the midst of indescribable pain and turmoil. Job said; "Naked I came from my mother's womb and naked I will depart. The LORD gave and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised." Praising God in the bad times is the key to freedom. Praise Him for the pain and watch the weight lift. Praise Him for the fact that you can't get out of bed and feel the peace wash over you. There is power in praising God and He is so deserving of our praise, no matter the circumstances. Anyone in the pit of depression can relate to Job's words in verse 3:26: "I have no peace, no quietness; I have no rest, but only turmoil." Oh, how I feel his pain. Yet, amidst such torment, Job concludes; "Though He slay me, yet I will hope in Him." Memorize and recite this verse and practice praising God. Our Lord is faithful and He is with us always.

God Whispers

God, today you taught me that You whisper so that I'll lean in close to hear You.
I will lean in close, focus on You, and cup my hand around my ear to block out other noise.
I will close my eyes in order to heighten my sense of hearing and prevent distraction.
This world makes it so hard to hear Your whispers.
I will remain in You and I will walk closely with You so that when you whisper to me I can lean in, block out the noise, close my eyes and listen.
I love you.