CHASING AWAY DEPRESSION’S DARKNESS
By Carolyn Dale Newell
My soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning-
Psalm 130:6a NKJV
Unable to sleep, I rose earlier than usual. The day was dawning. White petunias appeared to be illuminated, while everything else was covered in darkness.
Here in the mountains, a gorgeous sunrise is rare, but this one had potential. I watched in anticipation as I breathed in fresh air and floral scents. Birds sang and frogs accompanied them. I enjoyed the Creator’s handiwork while I prayed.
I reflected on Psalm 130. Many preachers believe David suffered with depression. You can feel the depths of his pain in Psalm 130:1-2: “Out of the depths I have cried to You, O Lord; Lord,hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.”
I can relate to his heartache. Then David penned this: “I wait for the Lord, my soul waits, and in His word, I do hope” (Ps. 130:5).
I remember the waiting; yearning for relief from the depression I thought had been conquered. I dwelt in God’s Word. I held onto His promises.
I waited for the sun to make its grand entrance. As light chased away darkness, it revealed what was undetectable in the night. The sky became a glorious violet canopy. Patience rewarded me with a beautiful sunrise.
I never thought good could arise from my depression, but waiting has revealed God’s purposes. Just like the day invaded the night, God chased away the darkness of depression, uncovering the unperceivable.
He loved me through it and He wants me to tell this story.
Friend, you may be in darkness right now. Hold on! Morning is coming for you too. Hope in God and His promises because hope prevails.
Father, in the moments we cannot feel Your presence and joy has eluded us, comfort us like only You can. Amen.
DIG DEEPER
Read Psalm 130.
HIKING THE TRAIL
Dr. Michelle Bengtson is a psychologist who has battled depression. She was compassionate enough to allow me to read her book prior to release date. It describes her journey with depression and its spiritual effects. Her book helped me immensely, and I highly recommend it:
“Hope Prevails: Insights From a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression” by Dr. Michelle Bengtson http://drmichellebengtson.com/hope-prevails-book/
Copyright 2016 Carolyn Dale Newell.
A Mountain of Faith 