A Depression Solution: Speak!

This entry is part 14 of 31 in the series The Hope Toolbox

A Depression Solution: Speak. This is your calling.

A Depression Solution: Speak!

Has depression zapped your resolve and self-esteem? Once you are down in the dumps, it gets awfully tough to climb out of the hole.

It’s not easy, but IT IS POSSIBLE. I say that because I have done it. Just like all those little steps that cycle you down deeper into the pit (I’m depressed –> overeat –> overweight –> feel blah –> eat more –> stay home –> more depressed –> feel more blah) the good news is that the spiral works the other way, too.

Life with depression and times of sadness may seem hopeless and overwhelming, but I promise you that little positive changes do matter.

One little thing that is really a big thing: Speak! There are times that you might feel like you can’t get out of bed, can’t leave your house, or can’t get up and get going. Okay, I get that. I’ve been there.

Here is one thing you can do. You can use your voice, and you can speak.

These are 3 ways you must speak. Start immediately.

A Depression Solution: Speak!

1. Speak God’s Word.

And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise...You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7,9

If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, sadness, or grief, you may be wondering if you are under spiritual attack. I’m here to tell you right now, you are. Satan is going to use this tough situation to his utmost.

You have got to get on top of your spiritual game, my friend. You ARE under spiritual attack and the enemy is real. This isn’t something to be afraid of, but it does need to be taken seriously. We have victory in Jesus! The way to combat the enemy is with God’s word. Speak God’s word at every opportunity.

If you are dealing with depression, double up your efforts. Write out God’s word on index cards and put them up all over your house. I have Bible verse cards on my bedroom mirror, bathroom mirrors, kitchen cabinets, by my computer. Find an app for your phone and set Bible verses as your screen saver on your phone. Go to worship on Sunday. Go to a Bible study. (Here are two resources: 10 Encouraging Bible Verses for Depression, How to Shine Your Light in a Dark Place.)

Find what works for you, but surround yourself with God’s truth to combat the lies that depression is running through your mind.

2. Speak Your Truth.

The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart.

Psalm 15:2

One of the biggest reasons many of us sink into depression is that we are not in touch with our needs, we do not express our needs to others, and we do not meet our needs in healthy ways.

The truth is that in order to combat depression, you must be willing to own up to what you need and speak it.

I must challenge you a bit on this one. Think back to conversations you’ve had over the last week. Were you going off about politics, world issues, or some other “this is what people should do” complaining?

There’s nothing wrong with venting occasionally, but sometimes that’s a smokescreen. If you are spending a lot of time telling other people what to do or venting about what’s wrong with the world these days, it’s time to take a step back and focus on yourself.

3. Speak Up for Those Who Cannot.

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy.

Proverbs 31: 8-9 **

God is calling each of us to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves and be the voice for those who have no voice. God has also placed on your heart a special passion area where you feel a burning desire to DO SOMETHING.

You might feel upset, hurt, angry, or excited — a holy passion — when you think about this subject or these people. Here is your chance to do something about it. This is your calling, dear friend.

If you are thinking you can’t do anything or are not qualified — don’t believe it. These are lies. Everyone can do something. God would not have given you this burden if He didn’t want you to do something about it.

We don’t serve others for what it gives us, but I will tell you that the lift you receive when you speak up and advocate for someone else is absolutely incredible. Nothing will lift you out of your depression or sadness faster than speaking up for someone who needs your voice.

Pray for direction in where you are to serve. Just watch out, because these are powerful prayers. Be ready for when God answers! Your life will be changed in the process.

The Hope Toolbox

Today’s Bible Verse:

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.
Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy.

Proverbs 31: 8-9