We Need Only Ask

Read Psalm 42

He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.

Psalm 147:3 (KJV)

During a large part of my life, I suffered from depression without realizing the problem. Then one day, about a month after my retirement, when my life had been filled with the stress of a terminally-ill daughter, and not being completely healed after my son's accidental death almost 15 years earlier, I suddenly became physically ill.

After sobbing out my story about the state of my life, and an examination, my doctor diagnosed my depression. He told me the type of depression I have is due to a lack of an enzyme called serotonin, which is produced by the brain. Further, he said that stress and aging will often cause an almost complete depletion of serotonin. He prescribed Paxil, a form of serotonin replacement therapy.

In addition to the Paxil, each day, I asked the Lord to help me through this battle. He has answered my prayers, for I feel better and happier than I have in years. Looking back on all the years of ups-and-downs -- high and lows, I know that God was just waiting for me to come to Him for help.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, help me to overcome my depression, that I may continue to enjoy my family and friends. Also help me to continue in my new-found confidence to assume more responsibility in your service.

Thought For The Day

Keep hold of the Master's hand. He will lead you out of the depths of darkness and sustain you in His light.

PRAYER FOCUS: Those struggling with depression and the worry of returning to the darkness.