“My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son.”
Hebrews 12:5-6
Depression often makes us feel abnormal. We have a hard time fitting in with others. We lack the energy to work or play, struggle to find enjoyment or satisfaction, and feel far from God. We’re oddballs.
In a certain sense, every person will suffer some form of depression, even if it is the much more expected and socially-acceptable grief over losing a loved one. Depression might even be considered a normal response to the brokenness of this world. Many things are worthy of our tears.
In fact, it may just be that depression can be a sign of health. When healthy hearts have an impact on broken circumstances, healing may be on the way, albeit often slowly. It is much more concerning when someone offers an indifferent shoulder shrug to brokenness rather than tears.
God continually reminds us to expect suffering. From Hebrews 12, we remember it may be a form of the Lord’s fatherly discipline toward His beloved children. Depressed Christians are not weirdos; they are the treasured children of their Father in heaven.
In a certain sense, every person will suffer some form of depression, even if it is the much more expected and socially-acceptable grief over losing a loved one. Depression might even be considered a normal response to the brokenness of this world. Many things are worthy of our tears.
In fact, it may just be that depression can be a sign of health. When healthy hearts have an impact on broken circumstances, healing may be on the way, albeit often slowly. It is much more concerning when someone offers an indifferent shoulder shrug to brokenness rather than tears.
God continually reminds us to expect suffering. From Hebrews 12, we remember it may be a form of the Lord’s fatherly discipline toward His beloved children. Depressed Christians are not weirdos; they are the treasured children of their Father in heaven.
Scripture Focus
Hebrews 12:3-13
Insight
“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)
Bible In A Year
- Nehemiah 3-4
- Psalm 32
- Mark 11
