Today’s Reading, 1 Kings 18-20
Focal Scripture: 1 Kings 19:4 “but he went on a day’s journey into the wilderness. He sat down under a broom tree and prayed that he might die. He said, “I have had enough! Lord, take my life, for I’m no better than my ancestors.””
Depression is not something that gets talked about in Christian circles very often. It is a very taboo topic. I have heard believers say that “depression is not real” or “Only weak people get depressed.”. Or the worst statement “You just need more faith.” I know that some people mean well by these statements but it causes more harm than they realize. Depression amongst believers is real and must be addressed.
In today’s reading we see Elijah battle depression. I know the Bible doesn’t say it directly but the context gives us all the clues. First, Elijah experienced a great victory. He watched God show up and reveal himself in a magnificent way. He was happy and ready to go, then he heard that the the queen wanted to kill him. He lost focus on God and put it on his circumstance. Next, we see Elijah seclude himself and start thinking about his problems. He became so overwhelmed with what could happen he forgot what did happen. Then we see the next step in depression, Elijah wanted it all to end. He even prayed that God would take his life. Then the final stage of depression is comparison to others and a desire to just give up.
If you have never been in a situation like this it is very difficult to put into words how quick a person can go from happiness to distress. It is overwhelming and it can be cyclical. For some people it is event related. For others it is a struggle they will endure for life. We see in the scripture that God attended to Elijah. He provided food and worked on him slowly to get his mind and heart back on track.
The challenge for today is understand that depression is real. If you know of someone who is struggling this is how you can help.
- Sit with them (they don’t need sage advice in the beginning)
- Provide food and water
- Don’t let them be alone
- When they say scary things pray for them openly and passionately.
- Have compassion and be patient
- Slowly remind them of who God is and how he has worked in their life.
- Don’t invalidate their feelings or tell them to get over it
- If you things over your head ask for help. They may get mad at you but most of us are not experts. We need to know when to call for help.
- Constantly check in and remind them they are loved by you and by God.
- Know their battle may come and go, pray for them constantly.
This is a topic that I am glad is addressed in scripture. God shows us how to love others through it in real time. He also shows us that we all have different challenges. Some are physical, mental or even spiritual. Make no doubt the evil one will use circumstances to get us off track and take us out.
If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide reach out to a counselor or pastor. They can point you in the right direction to get help.
You can also reach out to 988 by call or text.
As believers we must understand depression is real and help those who are struggling through this very dark season of their life.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading 21-22
