The Pain of Depression

Depression. It has the ability to sneak up on any of us if we’re not careful. It’s not always about feeling like we’re at the bottom of the heap. Sometimes the exhaustion of Life takes us there. Even heroes feel the pain of depression. Want proof?

We read about the Prophet Elijah in 1 Kings 17, when he tells the feared King Ahab, “there will be neither dew nor rain in the next few years except at my word.” What a mighty prophet of God! Then, after years of drought, Elijah challenges 450 prophets of Baal on the top of Mount Carmel to see which god was greater. Baal or the great I Am. (The story, found in 1 Kings 19, is one of the greatest action-filled stories of the Bible).

Elijah comes away victoriously!

Yet in the very next chapter, he flees the area and asks God to kill him. Do you get that? Elijah would rather be dead than feel such deep depression!

I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life … ” 1 Kings 19:4

Depression can take anyone down. We need to be ever-vigilant against it. Here are a few (of many) warning to watch for to safeguard yourself against depression.

Fear can set in

See how Elijah ran (vs. 3)? This mighty warrior heard the queen’s threats over God’s voice. If he hadn’t been so tired, perhaps this fear would never have happened.

We let Comparison take over

If Elijah hadn’t been so weary, maybe he would have remembered his value to God, and not compare himself with others “. . . I am no better than my ancestors”(vs.4). How often do we compare someone’s strengths to our weaknesses?

Not exaggerate the negative

We see how Elijah left clear thinking behind. At the end of verse 10, we read that he blew the situation out of proportion. “I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.” He knew that wasn’t true.

Beating depression

Just like there are several signs of depression, there are several cures as well.

1. Get your physical condition in order. If your doctor prescribes drugs, take them! There’s nothing wrong with treating a chemical imbalance with the proper medication. If you need rest, exercise, or a better diet, do what you can to achieve your goals in those areas.
2. Take your frustrations to God. If your heart gets in the way, rely on Truth. Spiritual truth. That’s always unshakable. And if you find yourself getting angry with God, let him know. (Here’s a secret … he knows already.) Trust God with your authentic feelings. You may be surprised at the support you’ll receive.

Don’t let the pain of depression take you to places God never intended you to go. He’s in your corner. Reach out to him in prayer. See how he makes himself known to you.

What say you?

What do you wonder about?  Are you happy … or are you doing what you never thought you’d do? Do you see consistencies … or are you all over the place? Drop me a line. I’d love to chat.

Struggling to find good in your life? Check out my award-winning book, God’s Best During Your Worst, or check out any of my other books on my Book page.