Free from Depression

“Do not fear … you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned.”—Isaiah 43:1–2 NIV

According to a recent study, nearly a tenth of American adults have suffered a serious bout of depression in the past 12 months. This depression has a wide and profound impact. We’ve seen that depression can be the cause of lost wages; it can result in violence, anger, worry, and many other maladies.

Christians are not immune from depression. We can become depressed as we face problems. We all face challenges and trials, and we can become discouraged or depressed about the problems we face. We can feel defeated by sin and the mistakes we have made. We can be burdened by unsaved loved ones and oppressed by demonic attacks.

But God has given us the power to be freed from this depression. He told Isaiah that we might go through waters, rivers, and fire, but He will be with us. He promised that we would not be swept over by the floods of life or burned.

If you feel overwhelmed by the weight of the world, turn your heart to God. Seek to be filled with the Spirit, remembering that the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, and peace (Galatians 5:22–23). As Isaiah reminds us, we belong to God. He can take away our fears and worries.

Don’t bottle up your feelings. Confess your needs and problems to God. Then confess His promises. Trust Him. Remember, He has redeemed you.

Reflection Question: What’s weighing down your heart today?