I want to share a blog written by a friend who is a pastor’s wife that I felt was something we could all use, whether we have been where she is or to have it as a resource for someone we know who struggles, it is so beneficial. We are all broken and even a pastor’s wife can deal with depression.
** If you are having thoughts of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or plans to harm yourself please contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 to speak with a licensed counselor and seek medical help.
No matter where you are, what you are facing, or what trial and tribulation you are walking through, there is hope and healing for you. How do I know this? First, God’s word is clear about His unending love for His children. Second, God’s word is chock-full of people that cried out to God about their distressing situation, and He was faithful to rescue and restore them. Third, I have been where you are; I tried to end my life, but God had other plans. God has called me to tell you that what He did for me, He will do for you.
In Psalm 22:1-3 we can hear the desperation in David’s voice as he calls out to God to rescue him from the anguish he was experiencing. We can recognize the despair in his voice as he writes “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, but I find no rest.” (Psalm 22:1-3, NIV). If we are honest with ourselves, we have cried out similar words to our God. We have felt, or are feeling, that there is no help and no hope available to you, sweet sister, in this moment of severe suffering.
David authored a much different Psalm later in the book of Psalms. In Psalm 40:1-3a, David writes, “I waited patiently for the LORD, He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the mud and mire. He set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God.” I am thankful that David did not give in to those distressing thoughts he wrote 18 chapters earlier, aren’t you?
The feeling that hope is gone and that everyone is better off without you is a lie straight from the enemy. The enemy (the father of lies, Satan, Lucifer, etc.) prowls around looking to devour us with lies of self-condemnation and self-loathing. Conviction of sins is from the Holy Spirit to help us grow as Christians; Condemnation is a tool of the enemy used to keep your eyes on your troubles and not on Jesus and His purpose for you. As long as God exists there will always be help, hope, and redeeming love available to you right where you are. Let’s fight spiritual battles as Jesus did by speaking the truth of scripture for every lie of our Enemy.
Sweet, sweet sister, when troubles are too much for you, cry out to Jesus. He loves you with a love that is not conditional on anything you can do. He loves you for who you are, and nothing will ever separate you from that Perfect Love He has for you (Romans 8:37-38). He created you so He knows you well (Psalm 139:13-16). What is too much for us to carry is lightened by the yoke of Jesus (Matthew 11: 28-30). Jesus promised that we would all face trials and tribulations but keep in mind that He has overcome them (John 16:33). My tribulations are different than your tribulations, but our God is the same today, yesterday, and forever! He will keep every single promise He speaks.
Can I pray for you?
“Heavenly Father, I come to you today on behalf of my sister who is struggling to believe the truth you have spoken over her since creation. The lies of the enemy are screaming so loud it is drowning out Your promises to her. Father, I pray that she would stop condemning herself and instead give her eyes to see the beautiful creation she is. Father, life is hard sometimes. Sometimes we all want to give up because it feels that in the next moment we will drown underneath the turbulent storm. Help my Sister to recall your words in Isaiah 43:1-3a, “But now, this is what the LORD says- He Who created you, Jacob (insert your name). He who formed you, Israel (insert your name): Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, Your Savior.” God, grant my sister new strength for today because Your mercies are new every day. Great is your Faithfulness! (Lamentations 3)
In the Name of Jesus – AMEN
Love,
Someone who knows how you feel
We are here to walk with you on your ministry and personal journey!
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