Instrument Rated – Part 5
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
Instrument rated for depression. Depression, if left unchecked, can cause you to do some crazy things, like walk away from a good job or a healthy marriage, or turn to alcohol and drugs. The dictionary defines depression as ‘to be flattened vertically or dispirited’. Now you know why sometimes you don’t want to get out of bed in the morning. The word ‘depression’ is not mentioned in Scripture. The closest definition to it is ‘heaviness’. ‘Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop…’ (Proverbs 12:25). The toughest battles you will ever fight will be those with your own mind. What’s the answer? Start speaking God’s Word – out loud! ‘For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you”. So we may boldly say: “…The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”’ (Hebrews 13:5-6). Often people say the Lord has promised never to leave me nor forsake me, then they go right back to discussing their problem. In so doing they invalidate the power of what God said. The Holy Spirit is authorized to act on God’s Word when you begin to say what God has said.’ When you dwell on your problem, it’s like a pilot flying by sight and senses. But when you agree with God’s Word and begin to stand on it, you’re flying by your instrument panel. So get into God’s Word, get God’s Word into you, and start speaking it over your situation. ‘My word…will not return to me empty…but will…achieve the purpose for which I sent it’ (Isaiah 55:11).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to know Your Word and to use Your Word. In Jesus’ Name, Amen
With respect to depression: It is completely true that God can overcome this disease and that standing on God’s word will help. I think God wants us to take care of our minds, just as we are expected to take care of our bodies. When our bodies are ill, we seek medical help…and use it! Likewise, when our minds are ill, we should seek mental health care….and use that too! God has gifted us with those who are devoted to restoring health. In my view, there is no virtue in unnecesary suffering. And there is no reason not to pray to God for healing of the mind, including healing for the physical changes in brain structures that are part of some severe forms of depression.