Clinging to Faith

The question is:  When you are at your lowest points in life, how do you pull yourself back up?

As someone who has suffered from depression in the past, I understand the black hole effect… that feeling of slipping into darkness and being utterly unable to see any way out. I understand the irrational onset of a depressive episode and the intense irritation that follows.  I understand the depths of undefinable sorrow and a sense of mourning for the unknown.  I know the horrible feeling of opening your eyes in the morning and realizing yet another day has been bestowed upon you.  I know the irony of fearing that you’ll be all alone and at the same time, wanting to be left all alone. I know the sadness that grips your heart until you think you can’t take one more moment of pain.

If you’ve never suffered from depression then you probably have no idea what I’m talking about.

When you find yourself in the black hole, how do you get out?  I wish I had a magic answer.  What I can share with you are three promises that I cling to with a white-knuckled grip. 

• The first one is in the Bible in Philippians 4:13 and it says:  “You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.”

• The second one is in the Bible in Romans 8:28 and it says:  “And we know that God makes all things work together for good for those that love Him.”

In both of these verses I focus on the word ALL, because to me that covers anything and everything I may be confronted with or involved in.  If I surrender it to God, He promises to strengthen me and somehow work it all out for good.  I don’t have to understand how… I only have to believe….and I do.

• The third one is in the Bible in Hebrew 13:5 and it says:  “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”  Even in my darkest hours, God is there and promises to always be with me.

The most powerful instrument that pulls me up when I am at my lowest is my faith...because I know God will never let me down.

Thanks for the question Elaine.  I hope I answered it adequately.  J