Depression is real. It’s not something you aim for, but as life happens, depression sometimes visits. It’s real enough it must be managed. But so many people simply do not know how. People are looking for help and hope. There is help. And there is hope.

The Psalmist struggled with depression. However, the Psalmist knew he could cry out to God, “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God.” (Ps. 42:5,11; 43:5)

David’s transparency is encouraging. He talks honestly about his difficulties. Then he tells himself to put his hope in God – an invitation that carries forward to you and me.

Here are interesting facts about depression. There are many more.

Although not always linked, depression and pain can be connected. They are cousins. Sometimes they visit and linger too long as your “guests.” More often, they feel like predators. As much as you want them OUT, you feel helpless to make them leave. Instead you find yourself asking questions:

Let’s reflect together on threads you can pull on. You know why? Because these threads are tethered to God.

Some of you have successfully held on for a long time. Don’t discount that. In fact, give yourself high marks for holding on. Gold medals and championships are won by people who hold on. It’s a huge accomplishment to hold on and keep going. Perseverance matters. It’s no little thing. And it strongly showcases your courage and your discipline.

God loves you deeply. Before you ever speak a thought or put a choice into action, He is aware. Is. 65:24 has a message of God’s intimate presence. “Before they call I will answer; while they are still speaking I will hear.” God is leaning toward you and wants to help you. He is the one who hands out the gold medals of eternity. Not only does He help the person who turns to Him in their discouragement. He also blesses the person who perseveres. God’s opinion matters. And He has a high opinion of you.

You can develop and carry out a flexible management plan to be healthy even while addressing depression. As long as you choose to do helpful things to manage it, you can stay in a good place. Learning and growing matter. Discipline matters. You will keep learning to manage discouraging times all your life. Let your next decision be to become pro-active as you develop and carry out a management plan.

Good can and does co-exist alongside depression and pain. You may feel you are at the end of your rope. Finding and holding onto good – matters. Ask God to open your eyes to little things that encourage. He’s filled your life with them so you don’t lose hope.

Life seems to drag out when you suffer. However, you have to admit – life is flying by. Earthly lives are very short. Numbering your days and thoughtfully pursuing even a small measure of purpose each day – matters.

Your perspective can change your emotional landscape. It’s a kind of trigger that launches your life onto a higher plain. Perspective matters. The kind of character you practice matters.

God is patient, kind, and good. He has sleeves rolled up to help you. Yes, you may feel overwhelmed. But God knows and cares. He can be trusted. That matters. But whether He helps is up to you. You’ve got to let Him help! Just come close to Him with your heart. It works! Hope is found in Christ. This also matters. James 4:8 says, “Come near to God and He will come near to you.” Do you believe and practice this?

Holding on is not only an accomplishment you can be proud of. It’s a critical action step you have control over. Start by holding on to Jesus.

When you suffer, it is easy to hear wrong messages. It is tempting to think God doesn’t care. He cares and loves you deeply. But God is not under obligation to answer your questions in your time frame or in the manner you expect Him to.

Jer. 31:3 says, “I have loved you with everlasting love.” This is true for you! Jer. 29:11 says, “I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Since He loves you so much and has good in mind for you, you can conclude He will carry you through depression.

Jesus is the Friend who will always listen. He promises companionship and compassion. Jesus will meet all your needs – if you trust and obey Him. God intends to:

Launch yourself into God who deeply cares. It matters.

Very NORMAL people sometimes find themselves depressed. For most people, this is a temporary condition. Some manage depression for long seasons. Whichever might be true for you, if you commit to the above points, it is possible to navigate your way through and live a healthy, normal life. God will help you. To partner with God and be able to count on His help – matters!

If you stay depressed or discouraged a long time, keep these good practices. But also remember – “Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Heb. 13:8) He will strengthen you with His hope. Hope is something you can participate in.

“In all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” (Rom.8:28) In God’s estimation, your contributions in this difficult time is invaluable! There will come a time others might need someone like you!

Some depression is severe enough to receive medical care. It may also help to secure counseling from a professional skilled in Scriptural principles. There’s no shame in taking medication to step toward health – or talking with a counselor for emotional/spiritual health.

Remember: Jesus is the Great Physician and Wonderful Counselor. That matters.

“The Lord your God is with you. He is mighty to save . . . will take great delight in you . . . will quiet you with His love . . . will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zeph. 3:17)

More help for depression.