“But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he asked that he might die, saying, 'It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers.'" 1 Kings 19:4 ESV
Depression, anxiety, and suicide are real. I have battled with a couple of these over the decades and I can say they were some of the darkest moments of my life. I can understand how victory isn't claimed by everyone.Thank God I made it through and I hope to never revisit those battles.
Mental health can be pretty taboo in the Christian community despite the fact that several Bible characters (e.g. Job and Jeremiah) dealt with despair, loneliness, and hopelessness -- even Jesus (Mark 14:34-36)!
Here we have the prophet Elijah who experienced many victories on behalf of the Lord with His help. One would think that because of the highs he has experienced and his successes that nothing could shake him. That's not how depression and angst work especially when an entity is threatening your life. Elijah wanted to stop living because his despair and pain were too much.
As someone who has battled mental health, I'm going to avoid commonplace expressions like "all you need is Jesus" and others that can come across as dismissive and show a lack of empathy unintentionally. Yes, pray. Yes, seek counseling. Yes, workout vigorously to keep your endorphins high. Yes, express your frustration and hurt to the Lord.
The other day I came across a social media image that said rearranging the word "depression" becomes "I pressed on." One foot in front of the other. One breath, one second, one minute, one day at a time. If Elijah and the other characters of the Bible let their depression and despair win, they would've missed out on God's biggest miracles and blessings for their life yet. (Job got a whole new family and double for his trouble - see Job, Jesus suffered on the cross and saved humanity from sin - see Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and Elijah encountered God supernaturally twice - see 1 King 19.) The same is true for anyone who has felt like giving up. Try as you might to press on step by step for our God will give you beauty for your ashes (Isaiah 61:3).
Reflection
Have you or someone you love ever experienced a mental health challenge? If so, what helped you get through the worst times? If a loved one of yours was seriously depressed, what actions did you take that were helpful for yourself? For the other person? What might help you or your loved one press on? (Questions quoted from or inspired by Mission Peak Unitarian Universalist Congregation)
Prayer
Lord, thank you for always being there. Forgive me for giving into what I feel and see. Grant me access to all resources that can assist in restoring my joy. Help me to press on in good times and bad. I want all that You have for me. In Jesus' name I pray, amen.
Photo by Claudia Wolff on Unsplash
If you or a loved one are experiencing depression, anxiety, or suicide thoughts, check out these resources:
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