When Sadness Enters, Run to the Lord

"A study of depression and despair in the Scripture reveals that, in some cases, the pain we identify as emotional depression is simply one of the unavoidable consequences of living in a fallen world. In Romans 8, Paul indicates that the entire creation 'groans' under the weight of its fallen condition, longing for our final redemption from this sin-cursed world."

The above quote, found on page 204 of our text book, gives us one very adequate explanation of why we have all experienced some level of depression in our lives. As Eve reached for that fruit that day in the garden, she could have never forseen the far-reaching effects of her disobedience. Because of the first Sin, we live in a fallen world.

However, we are exhorted in James to keep ourselves unspotted from the world in which we live. So, we have a choice! We can actually choose to stay down in the dumps. Or, as we walk in the Spirit in obedience to the Lord, we can choose to exercise self control and willfully put aside the sadness that causes depression.

If believing a lie causes sadness, then take your sadness to God and pour out your heart to Him. Allow Him to show you truth from the Word, which will conquer the lie so that it will have no power in your life. "Because with lies you have made the heart of the righteous sad, whom I have not made sad." Ezekiel 13:22a

If living in a fallen world of sickness, hunger, and poverty causes a sense of hopelessness which could lead to depression, then again, turn your heart to God and cry out to Him. "'For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now I will arise,' says the Lord; I will set him in the safety for which he yearns.'" Psalm 12:5.

If mocking and persecution for righteousness has come your way, go to the Lord. Seek Him so that He will show you the great rewards that follows suffering with Him. "Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you." Matthew 5:11-12

Anytime you feel the pain of living in an unfair world, you will find comfort and peace in our Heavenly Father when you turn your heart to Him. In Him is fullness joy. "In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." John 16:33b

Lord, thank You for pouring out to us all that we need to take a firm grasp of our emotions. You have sent Your Word, Your Spirit, and Your grace to enable us to be the women that You have created us to be. Thank you for Your love, and thank You for knowing what we need even before we do. We love you. Amen.