Depressed

Lexie flipped on her computer. The light from the screen caused her to squint her eyes. It had been a long night. She’d finally dozed off to sleep around 4:00 a.m. As the screen raised the curtain on the cyberworld she again saw the message from Trish.

This is it. I can’t take it anymore. I’m finished. –Trish

Lexie’s heart sank as she took in the message once more. She didn’t realize Trish was so desperate. And when she called her, she was surprised that her tone was so normal. It had been a hard decision to call Trish’s family, but it was one she was glad she’d done. Trish might be angry now, but later on, she’d come to understand.

Depression plagues thousands of Americans daily. It’s side effects lead to eating disorders, ulcers, mental issues, and even death. Intervention is equally as hard. Being the one to step in and say, “Okay, let’s get through this together” is not always the most popular choice. However, it’s usually the best.

In a world where a physician can write a simple prescription to help us over the hump, we tend to forget the other forms of help which are available. Counseling, support groups, prayer warriors, and most importantly, Christ. Jesus offered such peace over and over again.

John 14:27 tells us, “Peace I leave with you: my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Though these were the words of Jesus to his disciples just before His death, they are still very comforting thoughts.

Within us lies the ultimate ability to lift our hearts to the Savior – to open a tightly closed subject and allow our vulnerability to show. It’s frightening to offer ourselves to the open arms of a Savior we can’t physically place our eyes on, but it’s all about faith and trust. It’s about letting go and falling into the arms of the one who promises us a peace beyond belief.

Do we continue to worry? More than likely – we’re human. But taking the first step to seek help or come to the aid of someone who is in need is a step in the right direction. Trust, faith, hope and love.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to keep my eyes focused on You. Even when I think I can’t see You help me to look into my heart where You dwell.