1In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. 2Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. (Genesis 1:1-2).
Do you ever feel formless and void sometimes? I know I do. Sometimes between seasons that change in my life I can get this glazed over look like I am somewhere in another realm waiting for life support. Or then there are the times when I know I need to be writing a message and I just stare at the computer screen wondering where my mind is. I was sure it was there the last time I looked!
All kidding aside, feeling formless and void can also be a serious thing. According to the National Institute of Mental Health there are over 40 MILLION people in this country that suffer from anxiety type conditions alone. In 2014 over 15.7 MILLION adults were diagnosed with a form of depressive disorder. The mental health bills in this country are up over a staggering $100 BILLION or more. Folks we have a serious problem in this country!**(Freedom and Depression Association of America). Can you agree?
Along with these statistics, comes a lot of shame among those who have suffered and some have suffered in silence. It can be hard to be a Christian and have this type of diagnosis. After all, aren’t we supposed to have the answers, be filled with joy, and positive affirmations? Of course we are supposed to have faith, and joy is certainly obtainable. God does have the answers. Sometimes they are miraculous healing and sometimes He works His miracle through modern medicine. I’m not saying that all medicines are good for us, but for some, medications for anxiety and depression can mean the difference between a functional life, or sometimes death. This is serious!
We can take some refuge in the storm knowing that God Himself hovers over the face of the deep. The depth of our soul can be filled with torrential storms that only He can help calm. Darkness can try to take up residence there but God will speak light into those areas if we allow Him to!
3And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. 4God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. 5God called the light “day,” and the darkness he called “night.” And there was evening, and there was morning—the first day. (Genesis 1: 3-5).
God speaks into our very being. He lives inside of us! If you struggle with anxiety and depression, allow Him to speak “Let there be light” into the dark spaces because He still creates the same way He did from the beginning of time. The change can be the difference between night and day!
If you need medication with your faith, please do not hesitate to get an evaluation from a good medical professional! You might just get your full joy back! That is what God wants for you! Don’t go a single day without the ability to smile! God wants the best for you and so do I!
Dear Jesus, By the power of Your name, I speak light into the darkened inner places in each one. As You hover over the face of the deepened spaces of our being , bring to the storms of life, and level the hills and valleys. Lead each one to a balance needed to function well. Take the stigma and shame from Your children regarding depression and anxiety. Bring compassion into the churches for those who often suffer silently! I proclaim “Silence no more” in Jesus’ name, and heart, amen!
Freedom does not have to be hard,
Pastor Jenine Marie Howry
Jenine Marie Coaching– 800-421-1765
Life Lessons by Jenine Marie 