Some of us just seem to be inclined toward depression. I know, you don’t want to hear it. I also know some of you think it is a lack of faith. Having a propensity to “the blues” doesn’t mean you’re an Eeyore. But even Eeyore wins at Poohsticks more often than he loses. There are a lot of misconceptions about those who tend to feel down.
They laugh. They smile. And while Eeyore may live in the southeast corner of 100 acre wood, he is also capable of a deep compassion for others. Actually, this depression that can be so painful has resulted in some beautiful art down through the ages; from paintings, to poetry, to some great music, depression has left an impression, and it’s not always a bummer.
The great preacher Charles Spurgeon, who lived with severe gout, was subject to depression. I once read that his deacons had to actually carry him into the pulpit, he was so often in pain, and downcast. But Spurgeon said, “Pain has, in some cases, developed genius, hunting out the soul which otherwise might have slept like a lion in its den. Had it not been for the broken wing, some might have lost themselves in the clouds, some even of those choice doves who now bear the olive branch in their mouths and show the way to the ark.”
That’s right…don’t discount those who may seem to live in that “Gloomy Place: Rather Boggy & Sad.” They may be leading the way to your salvation.
That depression can also help a person reach out to God and yearn for His friendship, which can cause (and has in my situation) a very deep personal relationship with Him! I’ve struggled with depression for the last 14 years. For 4 and a half of those years I’ve had a personal relationship with Christ so lack of faith has nothing to do with it. I have faith that God will help me though the rough times and He always does. That doesn’t make them go away, it just makes them easier to bear and not last as long.
Looking back now I see just how that most wonderful relationship could have helped me much earlier in my struggle. I hope to find a way to help those who are “hopeless” and show them that He who most loves us for us can give them the hope and love they long for.
Those who look down on depression have a hard time with relating with just how much it is an illness. They don’t understand that you can’t just jump out of it, even with God in your life. If they only knew just how much that person would love to just “jump up and be happy”, they would be more compassionate and understanding.
Sorry, I’m probably rambling. Not had enough coffee yet this morning. But I wanted to put my two cents in while I had the chance….
God’s peace to all,
Tonda
Thanks for sharing.
tim,
spot on, pastor. feelings of gloom have so many false stigmas attached. i loved what you shared – spurgeon’s quote about being in the clouds. how enlightening! you know, God seems to desire our worship and our song, and our humility. and i was suicidal in 2005. when i could not determine my left from my right hand, i SANG! he is the only thing worth singing about. hallelujah for this post. hallelujah for a “pastor” with transparency!
Thanks to all of you who posted a reply. Not sure if this stuff I write gets read, and I do appreciate the feedback.
Wow! How are you Michelle? Long time indeed. Gosh, please, if you make it back be sure and speak to both of us. Keep Donny straight (call him Spiderman and he’ll know you’ve been talking to me!). I love that guy.
Thanks for letting me know you visited, and I hope you’ll come again.
Blessings,
Tim