I still can’t believe Robin Williams is gone from this world. But I well understand, at a deeply personal level, what desperation and a sense of hopelessness can lead to.
The truth? Being happy has nothing to do with money or fame, and everything to do with the heart.
A cheerful heart is good medicine,
but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22
For years, I quoted this week’s verse while watching audiences experience the healing power of laughter. To be honest, I only shared the first half of the verse. The happy bit: “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine” (KJV). Yes, it does.
Then you voted for Proverbs 17:22 as one of your favorites, and I had to consider the second half of the verse. The serious bit: “…but a broken spirit drieth the bones” (KJV).
Have I experienced that brokenness? Yes, I have.
Perhaps you have as well. Keep reading, beloved.
A cheerful heart… Proverbs 17:22
We’ll start with the happy part, the good news. The Hebrew word sameach means “joyful, merry.” Not necessarily LOL, just having “a glad heart” (NLV).
It’s Christmas morning, with gifts tucked under a glistening tree. It’s Mother’s Day, surrounded by children and grandchildren. It’s a graduation ceremony, with mortar boards tossed into the air. It’s happily ever after, when the bride and groom kiss.
Those moments might not make you laugh, but they’ll definitely make you smile, maybe even tear up. A warm glow fills you like a candle, burning inside the place the Hebrew language calls lebh—your “inner man.”
It’s not the physical heart beating inside your chest that makes you cheerful.
It’s a state of mental health. It’s a “joyful mind” (DRA).
In a word, it’s “happiness” (ERV).
…is good medicine,… Proverbs 17:22
Like an invisible vitamin, cheerfulness “works healing” (AMP) in your body. You begin to realize “you feel good” (CEV). Invigorated. Stronger. In “good health” (GNV).
The “curative balm” (VOICE) that happiness provides isn’t your imagination working overtime. It’s the Lord working full time. It’s the Great Physician providing gehah—in Hebrew, “a healing, a cure.”
The benefits of being joyful are countless. Your blood pressure goes down, your ability to fight infection goes up, and the face you present to the world has fewer frown lines.
…but… Proverbs 17:22
This little word is the hinge on which many proverbs turn. When bad news comes first, the word but gives us hope that good news will follow.
In this verse?
But tells us there is a great deal more to the story.
…a crushed spirit… Proverbs 17:22
Can you feel the weight of it, pressing on her shoulders? on yours?
When our spirit is crushed, our eyes give us away. Even if we’re smiling, people can see the pain and sadness inside. There’s a lack of sparkle, a dullness in our gaze.
Despite our best efforts, “sorrow” (ERV) can’t be hidden. “Depression” (GW) can’t be ignored. A “broken spirit” (ASV) can’t be easily mended with a word or two.
“Lighten up!” “Snap out of it!” “C’mon, get happy!”
These are not helpful comments for someone with “a downcast spirit” (LEB). If a loved one—if you, dear friend—feel “gloomy all the time” (GNT), it will take more than a funny story, a humorous cartoon, or a clever one-liner to bring back your joy.
If laughter alone had the power to save us, Robin Williams would still be alive.
…dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22
In Hebrew, yabesh means “withered.” Yes. That’s it. Withered.
Depression “is a disease” (ERV) that “dries you up” (NIRV). It “drains your strength” (EXB), until “you hurt all over” (CEV) and are left “bone-tired” (MSG).
Depression is a “slow death” (GNT).
September 10th was World Suicide Prevention Day. In an open letter to Robin Williams, psychiatrist Dr. Keith Ablow describes what depression looks and feels like, and what can and should be done for someone who is suffering, often in silence.
Please note, he does use one expletive (even with a *star*, the word is obvious), but in every other way Dr. Ablow’s letter is spot on and well worth reading.
I especially applaud his closing thoughts: “It is not too late for the millions suffering with major depression. No, it is never too late when the enemy relies entirely on deception to do its dark work.”
We know that enemy. He has a name. The adversary, the father of lies, the enemy of our souls “prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8).
Depression is one of his favorite weapons, perhaps because it’s often wrapped in fear and shame. The World Health Organization estimates that more than 121 million people worldwide have some form of depression.
Depression is physical, mental, emotional, biological, spiritual, and chemical.
Depression is real.
Is there any hope?
Yes. Depression is treatable. If you or someone you love suffers from depression…
- You are not alone.
- Depression is not your fault.
- Your loving Savior can help you take back your life.
- He may use counselors or physicians or medicines to do so.
Oh, my. This post took a more serious turn than I expected. I wasn’t planning on telling you that I was diagnosed in April with clinical depression. Or that I’m on medication now.
Your ever-joyful Lizzie, who has loved Jesus for three decades? Yes.
Why even mention it? Because I love you. If my admission gives you the courage to seek professional help, then praise God.
I will leave any additional advice to those who are qualified, but may I just say this? There is zero shame in taking an antidepressant. It’s not a crutch for weak people. And it doesn’t mean you don’t trust God.
If your body needs more serotonin, then swallow your pride and swallow the pill your doctor prescribes for you. Don’t let the fear of “What will people think?” keep you from getting the help you need.
When our minds and bodies are no longer fighting against us, then joy has a chance to settle into our bones and begin the healing process.
True joy is knowing God, and being known by Him. True joy is surrendering to His will and letting Him use every means at His disposal to rescue us from darkness and bring us into the light.
He has rescued me. He has rescued many.
Job, who suffered great losses, wrote with confidence, “He will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy” (Job 8:21).
David, who regularly poured out his fears and sorrows, nonetheless told the Lord, “You will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand” (Psalm 16:11).
Jesus, even knowing the cross waited for Him, assured his followers, “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete” (John 15:11).
That’s my prayer for you today, beloved: complete joy and freedom in Christ.
Now it’s your turn
- Has God whispered something you needed to hear in this week’s study?
I hope you’ll Post a Comment below, if only to let people know they are not alone. What matters far more is that you share the truth with your family, with your doctor, and above all, with the Lord, who wants His people well and whole.
Please know, I sensed His leading as I wrote this post, and am trusting Him to use everything for the good of those who love Him. As I’ve often said, it doesn’t matter what you think of me. It only matters what you think of Jesus.
Your grateful sister, Liz
@LizCurtisHiggs #50Proverbs
P.S. As always, your Printable of Proverbs 17:22 awaits you, as well as two new pins to share on Pinterest. God bless you, today and always.
Oh dear Liz, I take an anti depressant every day, for 5 years now. I walk with darkness hovering, but I trust God to provide the strength to keep it at bay. I am a funny person, and always making people have a good laugh. The humour is a way of escaping the clouds that want to envelope me. I am a church organist, and my church family are loving and caring. My husband however is not caring or understanding. I try very hard not to let his opinion of me hold me down. It has taken me a long time to come to this conclusion, through years of no self esteem, and beating myself about the head. But, I trust that I can do all things through God who gives me strength. Thank you for your words, and your books. God bless you as you serve him.
You are so dear to share a bit of your journey with us, Bonnie. I am sorry to hear that your husband is not supportive. So. Hard. Praying for you this day, my sister.
Thank you, precious sister, for being sensitive to the Holy S;pirit’s leading in sharing your experience for our benefit….love you, Naomi
You are beyond kind to encourage me, sweet friend. A huge sense of relief and His peace washed over me when I posted this last night. Praying those who need assurance will find it here. Hugs!
Wow. Thank you Liz, for your honesty and openness in unpacking this scripture. You are such a blessing to the Body of Christ, including me. Yes, we want to linger on the cheerful heart verses, but it is usually in the crushed spirit times that we draw closest to our precious Saviour. Fifteen months ago, our lives were forever changed by an event that we did not sign up for. Through it all, we continue to look for God’s glory, knowing that He “is near to the broken hearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)
I said a moment ago, that you are a blessing to so many. But even greater than that, you are such a blessing to our Father, and He delights greatly in you. I trust you will sense His Presence today in a sweet and refreshing way. Love and hugs to you.
Jeanie, you are so absolutely right: “it is usually in the crushed spirit times that we draw closest to our precious Saviour.” I feel certain that’s the primary purpose of such seasons in our lives. “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” James 4:8
Liz, I totally agree with your comment here. God does use pains etc… in our lives to draw us closer to him. I know he has used my chronic
health issues I have developed over the last three years for just that purpose. We love you Liz and may God bless you richly.
Just this week I visited my doctor… As a pastors’ wife I feel as though I have hidden behind a smile and the assumption that I “just have to be okay” for too long…. I am prayerful that I am on the road to wellness. Please pray for me
So proud of you, Karen. God will be with you every step of the way. Honored to pray for you!
I watched “Mom’s Night Out” a faith based movie (DVD). You just have to see it! My girlfriends and I laughed and laughed! It has a smiling pastor’s wife in it too! Don’t want to tell you too much;)
That was one of the things I feared the most was “what would people think? ”
To realize and be reminded that it is not a spiritual issue is of utmost encouragement to me. I need that reminder when the enemy starts whispering in my ear. Thank you, Liz. You’re an inspiration to me.
Bless you for sharing, Brandi. Tell the enemy to take a hike. God’s got this!
I’ve been taking an anti-depressant for nearly thirty years. I lost my son to suicide while I had been thinking no one would miss ME. Don’t let those thoughts dwell in your mind because they will poison your home. The Lord has made me whole again, long story. Last January I tried going off the medication, but quickly sank back into the darkness, so I am on them for life. Still, God is good and faithful.
Praying for you, Darlene!
Oh, Darlene. The hardest road a mother can walk. I’m so sorry.
Good for you, understanding that your body, mind, and heart are better with the medication. God bless you, my sister!
Thank you for your transparency and honesty. I dont have really have any eloquent words to describe how you have blessed me with your post but may the Lord bless you!
He has, Niki, and so have you. Thanks SO much.
Thank you. It is hard some days to walk in joy. I too have sought help in counseling. Jesus the great physician is meeting me there.
Such a comfort, to know we are never alone and the One who loves us most is with us.
Thank you for sharing this Liz. I too am a depressant, and been on all sorts (too many to name) of anti-depressants over the last 20+ years. My greatest dream has been denied me and has put me in a very dark place, so I can so relate to the “crushed spirit”. Thank you for this Liz x
Praying for you!
May the Lord comfort you today with His peace, Jacqui. Thanks for sharing your heart with us.
God bless you, Liz! I have had depression for many years. Our gracious Savior has been faithful thru it all. I take meds.and am thrilled to say my life has been and continues to be good. Praise God! My heart goes out to all who suffer with this disease. May our loving Father give us all the courage to seek help and the grace to encourage others.
So appreciate your voice of experience, Donna.
Liz, God truly led me to this post today. I was “put BACK on anti-depressants” in June. I had been on them years ago, before I had gastric by-pass surgery, when I weighed well over 400 pounds. After the surgery, I felt that all was well. But after all these years of lying to myself (but, of course, not to God) I had to realize that God had given me doctors (and a boss – I work for a Christian counselor) who cares about me, and they all agreed that my body needs that extra boost the anti-depressants give me. I feel SOO much better now that I am taking them again. Even though I have always had my faith in God and believe nothing is impossible with Him, I had to realize that He also has given knowledge to people he sets in our path to help guide us along the way. I truly enjoy your posts. I LOVE seeing you in person (I have seen you twice at Mount Vernon Nazarene University, Ohio). We have a bond through some of our experiences, but the most important one is the bond we have as Sisters in Christ. God Bless You, friend!!
Praying for you, Mary Lou!!
It’s interesting that people think nothing of swallowing vitamins or cold medicine or pills for high blood pressure, but a pill to correct your serotonin levels is somehow a bad thing. Crazy, when you think about it. So glad you are feeling better, Mary Lou!
Dearest Liz,
You always know the right words and tone to bring us closer. You have touched my heart and my life so many times. I suffer from bipolar disorder and PTSD which threaten to steal my joy. But I just keep reaching for God and praying. Your writing helps me feel hope. I have recently gone back to therapy and will soon find out the medication that I need. God bless you for being there and lifting us up so we can see God’s reaching back to us. I know you.are a part of His plan for so very many people. Love and Joy,
Cheryl
Dear Liz:
I can’t thank you enough for sharing this. I can’t begin to tell you how very timely this message is for me, especially seeing that it was posted just yesterday. It never ceases to amaze me how timely God’s word always is. Thank you for allowing God to use you in mighty ways. Briefly I just wanted to say that while depression hasn’t been my constant companion, I have finally come to the conclusion that I am currently suffering from it. I am a middle-aged woman, soon to turn 55. Like many women my age, I am experiencing the wonderful things that come with menopause (NOT!)….poor memory, loss of interest in lots of things, feelings of inadequacy, loss of joy, feeling tense and unsettled, etc. I don’t even recognize the person I feel I’ve become. My emotions are all over the place. I’m a nurse and I have slowly come to the realization that my serotonin levels are in the tank, right along with my plummeting estrogen levels. While I’m not excited about the thoughts of adding yet another prescription drug to my daily regime, I have to do something to pull myself from this downward spiral. Thank you again for your timely message, your beautiful heart and wonderful ministry. I had the privilege of speaking to you briefly at the Women of Joy conference at Freedom Hall in 2013. I shared with you that my husband and I were looking forward to our first trip to Scotland that August, which by the way was an awesome experience! We’re now looking forward to a return trip in the next few years.
Your sister in Christ,
Sharon
Bless you, dear Liz, for showing all your devoted friends that you, too, deal with feelings of depression. We always see you upbeat, encouraging, cheerful – and we wonder how you can always be so uplifting. While those of us who love and admire you are sorry to learn you deal with depression, in like manner it shows us that no one is without times of feelings of despair. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you, but even more is God with you and Jesus guiding you through the difficult times. Certainly I have had my share of difficult moments, but last night I was blessed with the opportunity to attend a concert at UofL music school where I worked for 13 years. Surrounded by old, dear friends in a building filled with good memories and beautiful music, I was reminded that bright, happy times are all around us – we simply have to make the effort to seek them out. Blessings to you now and forever as you meet each day. Hopefully today’s gloomy clouds will lift, the sun will shine, and you will find peace in doing cheerful things.
Thank you for sharing this proverb 17 with your own personal experience. As a health care worker for 40 years I too know how prevalent depression is everywhere. The devil is having great success. All your advice is spot on and hopefully will reach many lives with the truth. The world needs Jesus. So glad to know you are doing better.
Thank you for being so open with us, Liz. I have benefitted so much from visiting with a godly Christian counselor and would encourage others to seek that counsel if needed. It takes so much energy to make that step, but God will provide the strength, and it can make such a difference!
Oh, dear Liz…I never leave a comment on these because I don’t want to put even one more small thing on your plate which might overwhelm you in your obviously hectic life! 🙂 But here I feel like I need to comment and say at least that “you were made for such a time as this.” I met you in San Antonio a year ago at the Women of Joy conference, and since then our bible study group of educators, nurses, maintenance workers, etc within the school district we work for has done studies based on your books, watched your DVD’s & videos, read other books of yours on the side, and subscribed to your devotionals. We all wanted to stay connected to you!! What an impact you make on the world, not only through your gift of writing, but also with your gifts of GAB and humor and compassion and other relational methods. People stop, and they listen to you. They can relate to you. They feel close to you, even though they may have only spoken with you briefly or not even in person. You are blessed with innumerable gifts! God is working in my life right now on judging others, and I fear I may have misjudged you. I’M SORRY. I’ve failed to realize that someone from which JOY just emanates might also suffer or need support from God’s faithful servants in prayer. You see, I always knew I needed you and others like you, but I’ve done you a disservice in thinking you didn’t need me. I’ve neglected to pray for you as I should have been doing, my dear, sweet, thoughtful sister! Know that I am truly sorry, and I thank God for your strength and admission! You are now even more powerful in Christ, and just think of everything He can now do through you which may have been restrained before! Reading your Proverbs study today has opened my eyes a little wider, and I thank God for working on the both of us daily!! You are now in my prayers on a regular basis, and I hope I will be on your prayer list, as well! We all need God, but He sent us each other, as well, to use for support while we’re on this side of Heaven! You’ve done what God wanted you to do with these words, and so many people, including myself, are blessed because of your obedience. We love you, Lizzie!!
Liz:
Thank you so much for sharing this. I have suffered with depression and been on medication for over 30 years. I am grateful that it is finally being recognized for the illness it is and am no longer ashamed to share with others that I have this illness. It really helps to know that I am not alone. Your honestly really means a lot. I think God meant for you to share so that your readers who suffer from this dark cloud would be uplifted and encouraged and not feel so alone. God Bless You for being so open and honest with not just this sharing, but with how you have shared your past as well.
In Christian Love and His Spirit, Alvina
I used to have what I referred to as a “sense of sadness”. For years I took an anti-depressant. But I also had panic attacks, because two chemicals in my brain didn’t bond. So I also took a prescription drug to get the chemicals to bond. The sense of sadness has retreated and I no longer have panic attacks, although i often live on the very edge of one. I have four friends/acquaintances who have committed suicide in the past six months. All were depressed. Thank you so much, Liz, for discussing this difficult topic. You are a Godsend to so many of us.
Liz, thank you for sharing your struggles. The Lord has used your writing to help me “out of the dark” so many times! I thank our loving Lord for giving you the skill and talent to write and speak His words to women’s hearts. I pray that The Lord uses the meds and your loving family to help you heal. I know that Jesus is walking with you to strengthen and comfort just as He walks with me and others who struggle with depression. Jesus is our Great Physician! Praying for you! Linda
Thank you ! Once again your admission gives me hope & lets me know I am not alone. With God we are never alone & His using you confirms that if you can overcome I can too !
If we sisters in Christ share our real selves, I believe we will encourage others. You have. I could not go anywhere and not start crying. Finally was honest with my doctor. It is amazing how one little pill has changed my life, since the first day. God is good all the time!
The words of an old hymn come to mind: “This is my story, this is my song; Praising my Savior all the day long.”
Bless you for sharing your story with us. May His peace reign in your heart and mind.
Blessings to you dear Liz…..I will always keep you in prayer because you ‘healed’ me of dragging around old luggage at a Women Of Joy in Louisville several years ago. I will be forever grateful for the way you brought this to light. I was able to ‘let go’ for good. Know that you are loved and prayed for….for all the good you spread through the word of God. Peace to you dear sister!
Oh, Lizzie, again your loving spirit comes out to help others. I have been treated for depression and there is no shame in asking for and receiving help. I lost my sister to this terrible malady. God is there to carry us through the hard times, to lift our spirits and heal us. Bless you for being so candid about something people are still afraid to talk about. You helped more people than you’ll ever know by sharing:) Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem….may your message be spread far and wide so that more people will step up and ask for help if they need it, both through prayer and medical assistance. Love you sister:)
Liz, just finished reading your blog and the comments. I kept saying Amen, Amen, Amen. You encourage and inspire so many. Blessings and heartfelt mercy prayers for all of us who have known depression. Elaine
Dear LIz, thank you for being transparent about so many things such as your Bad Girl past and your struggle with depression. My sister has struggled with depression too,but has found medicine and therapy(Christian)helpful. So glad that she and you and others are helped!
You are loved, Liz, by all of us, and especially by our Lord Jesus. You bring so much joy into our lives! Hugs and more hugs!
Sweet Liz, we met 19 years ago at a women’s conference in my church in High Point. I had just lost my husband. I was only 43 years old. Your personal connection was a balm to my soul. Your joy was contagious. I learned to laugh again that weekend. You told me then that laughter was not the result of a joyful spirit, but just a byproduct. Joy is present no matter the circumstances when you know the Lord. That comment served me well over the years as I flowed in and out of depression. Your strength during that conference, when you shared some innermost painful moments with us, gave me the courage to get assistance from professionals for my depression when I needed it. Lovely Liz, please know that I can look back with a grateful heart at a life lived without fear, because you had the courage to tell your story to a church full of women 19 years ago. May God continue to bless you personally, bless your ministry, and bless the women who seek His grace and mercy from your teachings. Love & prayers for your journey through depression. God is faithful. His love never fails. Paula J.
God Bless you for sharing with us. I have been on antidepressants for years. I have tried to go off them and I am not nice to be around. I live in a Christian community where people are not willing to mention the word depression. I have a friend struggling with a new medication right now and am praying for her and encouraging her. We have to be able to talk about it and it should be Christians doing it. I am praying for the strength to do just that!
Dear Liz & Bonnie, Wow! I have suffered from depression for many years. Pills were not helping. So I clung to Jesus and God’s word each day. I didn’t think I had any reason to be depressed. I love working with Woman’s Ministry but like Bonnie I didn’t realize that my husband’s opinion of me was clouding my view of myself. Words do hurt. We moved to be near grandchildren and the verbal abuse got worse. My mother came to live with us and she overheard my husband. The next day while he was at work she told me I was being verbally abused. I was so blind I hadn’t seen it for years. The trouble was I believed him instead of my Savior! I’m now on daily medication (sometimes it just takes awhile to find the right one). I went to a Christian counselor because I knew I needed to forgive my husband. We have been married 45 years. It has not been easy but God is faithful! God brought back my joy! I’m still working with woman’s ministry. I love your encouraging words that brings us closer to God! Love ya!
I pray that my comments will be an encouragement to someone on this timely topic. Today while driving home from work, I heard Skillet’s “The Last Night” on a Christian radio station–definitely a downer & reminded me of an attempted-suicide patient I cared for in the past. When I checked my email, I found this blog posting. Then while cleaning up, I remembered stories of abused children I’ve heard & read about. All of that to say, I went for encouragement to two Christian books. Two of the concepts that I got from Joni Eareckson Tada & Steven Estes’ WHEN GOD WEEPS are (1) that one of the reasons for suffering in the world is allowing us to see the result of sin so that we will hopefully not embrace sin but rather learn to hate it and (2) that our suffering here on earth encourages us to look for the next life & to anticipate something better. This coincides with a quote from Paul E. Miller’s A PRAYING LIFE concerning his wife (Jill) and special needs daughter (Kim): “Because of Kim, Jill longs for heaven. This desire permeates her conversation. Jill doesn’t say, ‘It’s a beautiful day outside.’ She says, ‘This would be a good day for Jesus to come back. Everyone can see him.’ Jill wants to go home.” May our suffering, whatever its cause, be His tool to draw us closer to Himself.
Thank you for sharing, Liz. I take meds also to help me. Again thank you.
Love you
Thank you for sharing. I’ve learned the harder something is to share, the better we feel after we share. The Lord uses all different thongs to heal. Sometimes its meds, sometimes a hug, sometimes an ear, sometimes something else, but He does heal. If we CAN’T have secrets from Him, we shouldn’t need to from anyone else for He is most important. Not only does sharing make us feel better, it makes others feel better in that they know they are trusted with part of is and that they may not be alone in their own secret. Pain shared is pain halved but joy shared is joy doubled. Thanks for trusting us with your story Liz.
I have a brain injury. I cry. No pill will erase this but I am under psychiatric care and psychologist care. But my emotions since brain injury rarely ( and I was on no meds for several years) are of the deepest deepest sorrow and usually flat. But I read my Bible. Keep singing praises. Brain injuries aren’t even understood by my current neurologists. They have not kept up with the latest teachings. Always a Prove it. Though I had a closed head hematoma pressing for four months which research now shows damages brain more as it pushes pressure constantly on brain. So I cry. Tire easily. Take seizure meds now. Feel when being questioned if I’d had any mental health issues before then nothing would be from a nine foot fall backwards onto cement floor Pray for me especially now. Case to provide for my care. It’s taken care away from me and pays zero meds. Pray.
What a balm your post was, Liz! Hugs to you for your courage and transparency.
Such a timely word, Liz! I have been in a “funk” (feeling down with no real reason that I’m aware of) for the past week or two, with tears close to the surface. I’m 50 and beginning the menopause process so I know my hormones are much involved. But I have had periods of depression throughout my life starting in my teens. I know for my my self-worth is involved and at work at present I have a workmate who treats me in a similar way to how my exhusband treated me – poisonous words given coated in supposed honey, so they come across in a pleasant tone, but inside is the toxic poison which works on my inner man. I know my God loves me immeasurably but the “downness” is so hard to lift of one’s shoulders. To hear your words today was so encouraging; it helps me to know that someone as bright and bubbly as you suffers similarly and understands. God bless you, Liz. Even while you suffer you encourage and bless others.
Thank you so much, Liz, for your honesty with yourself and us, your readers. Like so many who have posted, I lost a loved one to depression hidden from everyone… I pray for you as you give of yourself, that you will be given unto, blessings pressed down and overflowing! Thank you for letting us feel God’s love through you!
Bless you Liz! Another great post on another favorite Proverb (I share this one a lot!). Thanks so much for being transparent – it’s never easy! But God will (and already has) used it for His Glory! As I read a tiny bit of comments of other ladies, I can see why God had you ‘share’. 😉 It was so perfectly written and I learned a lot! I God IS faithful to us and will use any natural and ‘supernatural’ means to make us ‘whole’ again. Thanks for being wonderful you! Love your blogs and your awesome books!
After the birth of my first child, I was finally for diagnosed with depression. I just thought I was angry, one symptom that nobody seems to talk about is anger, amongst other things. It took some doing, but was finally put on the correct dose of a medication, and have it enough time to let it change the chemical compounds in my brain so that I could begin to cope with life. I was on that medication for nearly ten years, and am glad to say that I am now healthy enough to have been off of it for ten years. I speak up for mental health disorders, and an very glad that I got the help needed. I’m paying for each individual who is affected by depression. Good bless you, everyone.
So sorry you have to go thru this, Liz. By God’s grace He will hang on to you. I know by experience! why we so willingly use crutches fior broken legs, and for arms, but are embarrassed to use antidepressants for a broken mind …….Satan does know how to get to us! I am praying for you……..holding you up…..you are loved by soooooo many. Don’t trust or live by feelings….they are very real, but not always true… Live by God’s Truth!
Thank you Liz for your encouragement and honesty. Depression & anxiety are very prevalent in our current society. I have battled depression for as long as I can remember. Most medications didn’t work or only worked for a short period of time. I praise the Lord for leading me to a therapist that has helped me with many issues past and present. I’m being treated for depression, anxiety, and PTSD. My faith in the Lord is strong and without Him I would not be here. There is no more shame in seeking help with emotional and mental problems than any other disease. Sadly, one of the biggest stumbling blocks in this area is the church. Many years ago, during a period of severe depression and severe panic attacks, I went forward at church for prayer. I shared with one of the “elders” in the church how I had been feeling and said that I had gone to a psychiatrist, seeing a therapist, and was on medication & I knew the Lord would help me get through it all. Her response cut me like a knife when she said, “Oh my dear, Christians don’t need psychiatrists and medications ! If you just give it to the Lord, He’ll take care of it.” I wanted to cry. She made it sound as though, if I just had ENOUGH faith it would all go away, and since it hadn’t, it was all my fault. I’ve heard many others take this stance over the years. The truth is, just as the Lord brings physicians & surgeons into our lives to lead us to healing, He also provides medical assistance for our emotions. Thank you again for sharing. It means the world to all of us here in the battle. <3
I wasted 5 years going to my family doctor for help with my clinical depression. The different medications he put me on just barely helped me get through the day. When I finally swallowed what little pride I had left and called a friend to see a psychiatrist, I was well on my way to much better days. That was close to 20 years ago (good grief! How can it be 20?). For a very long time, I didn’t talk about my crippling depression and how I found help. I was afraid of what people would think. I had overheard conversations about those who took antidepressants, although I had to admit I didn’t seem to fit into their descriptions. When I finally admitted to myself that I didn’t care what people thought, I started talking about the miracle God had given to me. I’m so sorry you had to experience depression, Liz, but so glad you found your help and you shared it with the rest of us. I still take antidepressants and probably will for the rest of my life. So what? I have taken medication for high blood pressure for 30 years and will for the rest of my life. I believe that doctors, counselors and medications are all part of God’s way of helping us. Thanks for backing me up on that!
I have been on “happy”” medicine for about 4 years .It was surprising when my daughters said to talk to the the doctor about being so sad and quiet. I am a clown, and suppose to be happy. Sometimes we try to carry too much and we do have problems.my favorite verse is A merry heart is like good medicine. I have been a fan of yours for a very long time and I will be praying for you .
Liz, my dear friend you were very brave to post your personal experience. I applaud you. While reading some of the other comments, I could see how you helped others be ok with the fact they are having to see psychiatrists and some getting on medications. My husband is a Christian psychiatrist and he explains to those that don’t understand the chemical imbalance of Major Depression (especially those that think it will just go away if they pray it away) that it is like a car that runs out of gas. You have to refill the tank to get it going again. We don’t discount prayer by any means but sometimes the body has to get back in sync. I pray daily for our Christian soldiers that happen to be working in ministries that don’t understand this and think firing people if they see a “shrink” is the answer. That surely won’t help bring in the sheaves! I support you and love you and will continue to pray that your spirit will be restored as only He can do. He made all things good–even medications. It’s the way we use them that can be bad. Blessings my sister!
The spirit who has lived through the darkest moments is best able to share the joy of sweet relief given by Jesus. All who experience deep grief or depression have so much to share with the world, Thank you to each for doing so. Special thanks Lizzie for being brave enough to start the conversation,
Thank you dear Liz. I believe your words with this bible study will help so very many people. I pray for you and all those posting here for continued healing and blessings from our loving Heavenly Father ♥
Dear Sweet Liz what an amazing testimony once again. God has given you so much to share with honesty that touches our hearts. As a woman who always thinks I must do it myself, this study has given me insight as to what may be going on with me. A broken, crushed spirit does take everything from you. A broken family and caregiving of an elderly parent has left me crushed under the weight of burdens. Your honesty and the openness of others has truly revealed something I have not even considered. Thank you Liz for once again opening up God’s word!!! You will be in my prayers as God takes you on this journey of healing and true joy♥♥♥
I too have struggled with depression and am on medication. I stopped taking it for a while and just recently went back on the medication. It is taking a while to kick in but it is working.
I have been on anti depressants for 22 years now. Depression and anxiety run in my family. My parents, my sister and me, my son….oftentimes my biggest struggle when put under intense stress is anxiety that takes over my body and does not give me a choice. My husband of 19 years walked out on me 6 weeks ago, in that same time I have lost close to 20 lbs due to anxiety. He is not a believer and has carried a weight of depression with him his whole life. He is an alcoholic and though he “self medicates,” he has always doubted my need for medication and ridiculed my family as “pill poppers.” I have often thought that he would benefit from being on medication. I am blessed to have my loving Heavenly Father by my side as I walk through this trial but my husband continues to fight his “demons” all by himself, doing the only thing he knows how to do. For years I allowed my heart to be filled with hurt, anger, resentment and bitterness toward my husband and in so doing fell far away from The Lord. I have no doubt that God has allowed this journey in my life to draw me near to Him again and I pray daily thanking Him (despite my grief and anxiety) for loving me so deeply that He desired to draw me back to Him. Since my husband walked away I have turned to Christ in a way that I haven’t been near Him in 22 years. My heart has been burdened for my husbands pain and suffering and I pray for him constantly. Thank you Liz for your honesty! I too would encourage anyone who thinks they are suffering from depression to seek help and not be ashamed. It does make a huge difference in your ability to cope and function normally. However it’s essential too that you draw near to Christ and make Him part of every day because without Him the enemy will ensnare you.
Oh, Liz! Thank you so very much for this message today. I work as a
licensed counselor in a Christian setting, and I see people all the
time who are afraid to come to counseling and/or take medicine. I’m
going to print copies of this out and hand it out regularly to those I
think could use your uplifting message. You are such an inspiration to
many. God bless you in your journey.
Amen thank you for this post
Sweet Liz, You are spot on with your message. Thank you for sharing this piece of yourself. It is obvious from the responses that this is a common bond in sisters of Christ. I, too, am on an antidepressant and have been for almost 10 years. I daily deal with chronic health issues and the ups and downs of this condition are hard on my emotional state. I sometimes feel it would be much easier to give into the darkness that I keep at bay. But through the empowering of the Holy Spirit and the strength of Jesus I continue facing the light. I have drawn so close to Jesus and love him even more as He has walked with me through this turn in my journey. God is Sovereign and He has everything in His hand and plan for me, you and all of us. Blessings to you in your continued ministry. It means so much to me. Thank you dear one!
Dear Sweet Liz,
Thank you for sharing your truthfulness about your depression and how you handle it. I too live with depression daily and I literally loathe it. I wish it would go away but I know when God finally calls me home it will be gone forever. Until then, I wonder how frightening it will be to have a calm, right mind, not lost in fears and darkness, lol.
My depression began back in 1992 when my first husband had an accident at work and suffered from P.T.S.D. from that time until he passed away in 1995. I was only 47 at the time and couldn`t imagine life without that wonderful man that God had blessed me with for the last 28 years. Also had a son and he was 16 years old. He was still in school and helped me all he could at home. We both took jobs at the local Wal Mart. Talk about a culture shock! I had only worked as a Mom and housewife since I was 18, never outside the home.
I remarried in 2000 to another good man. He developed a brain tumor just 5 short years into the marriage and passed away also. We had thankfully moved back to my home state and my house which was paid for so I was safe there. I had begun taking meds in California where we had met and married. He passed in 2007.
I met and married a third time ( I hate being alone as you can tell) in 2009 to another wonderful man. God is so patient and good to us. Thank God all 3 of these men were Christians also. Well, this last husband was funny, loving, kind, patient, joyful, all of the qualities I enjoy and we thought we had a life time together, which I guess you can say we did. He was a Viet Nam vetertan and had COPD, CHF, PTSD, you name it he had it. He got sicker during these 4 years of marriage and passed away June 4 of this year. I have been through countless meds before this doctor of mine finally hit on the ones that help steady my mind.
I will also tell you that in 2003 I began a new and wonderful Bible study called B.S.F. and I have been in it for 10 years. I have never been happier in my life to have gotten back into it this month, for I had to give it up to take care of my husband as he was dying. I also keep up with you, my Sweet Sister in Christ and Ann Voskamp. I do daily Bible readings fron The Upper Room (Methodist) Daily Devotional, Open Windows Daily Devotional (Baptist), my BSF studies every day during the week and my Sunday School Lesson. Now I know a lot of people will say that is too much Bible reading but my mind is stayed on God and He has blessed my studying so much. I used to hurry up and finish my studies so I could watch tv but I have lost interest in that. I go to a craft class and I will begin soon with a local group in revitalizing our old home town. God bless you Liz and all of your readers. And hang on! God is with you whether you see Him, feel Him or not. TRUST HIM. He has been around since before He created the world ! I think I wrote too much!
Thank you so much for your brave honesty! Though I do not live with depression myself, I live with someone who does. I know the difference medication has made in my husbands’ life! I believe it has saved our marriage. The judgmental comments and disapproving faces that some in the church make when they find out someone is taking this type of medication are hurtful, not only to those taking them but to those who need them but will not seek out help because of what others will think or say. Thank you, thank you for opening up! You will be in my prayers!
Thank you for sharing this. I have posted the letter from the doctor on to my brother he to is on medication. It was only by Gods grace that I did not fall apart when my mum was dying and my father was on my back constantly as he thought I was doing very thing wrong. So it was double hard being heartbroken over mums suffering and dad yes he was suffering in a different way. But all he did was pick pick pick. I am now going to be a carer for him so that will be a challenge as he is a control freak. And my sister who is a perfectionist. To an obsessive degree and her husband. Like I say challenge. But knowing I have The Lord to turn to, will help me I am leaving my children and grandchildren behind in Australia and going over to England to look after dad full time as my sister who works she pops in every day to see dad But she says she has not had a holiday for two years, as I had to return to Australia after. Mum died as her brother died here and I had to sort out all the details funeral sale of house etc. sorry to bother you with all this. I was with mum and dad for 4 years before my beloved mum died. My sister is childless by choice. I have four adult children and 9 grandchildren. My sister says your kids are grown up you don’t have to be with them. They don’t need me. But I do. Enough now God bless you Liz and all those who are here
For years, people told me that my past behavior caused my depression. Like it was a punishment from God. I was so defeated & hopeless. Did a few stints in psych hospitals. All the while, feeling a tug on my heart. God gave me hope, a new church family and a wonderful, caring Christian counselor. And, some excellent medication. Thank you, Liz for sharing. It helps with the stigma when we share.
My sweet sister, Liz,
I have never posted before, but couldn’t not post this time. I wanted you to know how much I appreciate your continued transparency and your sensitivity to our Father’s voice. He created you and He loves you – just the way you are. The verse that came to mind as I read your post was, “…He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’ Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore, I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). He is using your weakness for His glory. Thank you for continuing to be faithful to His calling. I will be praying for you each time I see this week’s verse, asking Him to remind you that you are “fearfully and wonderfully made” and that you will be able to declare with the Psalmist, “Wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well.”
Blessings, hugs, and much love,
Sherri
Liz, Thank you for admitting that you understand the dark cloud of depression. I have struggled with the monster for over 20 years. Currently I am recuperating from another spiral episode that included refusing medical treatment for pulmonary emboli – hoping they would end my life. I have been blessed by the faith of friends who are determined to keep me alive. I don’t know what God has in mind for the future, but at the moment I am stabilized and seeking treatment in various ways. I have not been able to shake the fear of the future – the unknowns that might be on the other side; the bleakness continues to stand on solid ground while I am shaky. Your message served me this past weekend as I joined a group of five sisters for a weekend in the mountains. Eventually the conversations shifted from ‘catching up’ to some of the issues each was facing. It was the first time in 25 years that I was able to talk about the grief of losing a child who died four hours after I gave birth. It is in the sharing of burdens that God can bring healing. But we have to be willing to take those steps. Part of the healing came from watching a couple of your old videos and sharing laughter. When the tears of tough times surfaced they were buoyed up by the joy we had shared earlier. Thanks for all the ways you minister to us and encourage us!
Thank you for sharing this! I have struggled with depression and anxiety for so many years and I also struggled with the guilt of taking medicine. I am hopeful there will be a day I can stop these medicines and be free of this awful disease!
Thank you for sharing this proverb and being open about your clinical depression. I lost my dear husband in May due to heart condition. It is definitely a time of adjusting but I know that my Redeemer lives and that He care for me. At times I get down, like last Friday when I ate lunch at a place we used to go to. I did not realize it would bother me but I felt a little depressed that afternoon. I thank God for Christian friends and a Grief Share group that I am currently attending with another recently widowed friend, I know that God is with us and loves us. In fact this morning I read Ps 57:1-3 where in David asks God to be merciful to him and says his soul takes refuge in the shadow of “God’s” wings till the storms of destruction pass by. He said he knows that God will fulfill his purpose in his life. That really lifted me up knowing that God will be with me no matter what and I can trust Him. He is steadfast in His faithfulness. So when I have some problems feeling depressed, I know I can go to my rock and Savior who will never let me down.
Thank you, Liz for sharing this message, for being transparent to your readers. I too, take medication. I have been a Christian for many years, and love the Lord with all my Heart. Several years ago, I lost my sister unexpectedly; we moved to another state, I left a job I loved etc. This sent me spirally down; there is a Southern Gospel song that says I am hanging by a thread. That was me, hanging by a thread, trying not to go down into a dark hole, I prayed, family prayed, and friends prayed but that dark cloud remained. I knew the right things to do, get up, go out, see people, get involved etc., etc., none of this helped. Finally, I went to the Dr. he prescribed a medication that helped. Did God hear my prayer absolutely? He sent me to the right place to get help. So many people suffer with depression and are ashamed to ask for help, thank you for sharing so others don’t feel alone.
You can’t begin to know how much I love you, ((Lizzie)))
Only more & more…
xoxo
The miles are too long between … but it doesn’t matter when love is so deep. ((you))
There is no shame with taking an anti-depressant. I have for the last 15 years. It is caused by my fibromyalgia which depleats my serotonin. I did feel shame at first. A wise saint told me that wouldn’t you take insulin if you had diabetes?
My wonderful family calls this my happy pill.
God bless you for sharing honestly.
Dear Liz, Many Christian women are only transparent about the things they feel then can tell. Rare is it we find someone to be transparent about the very deep, core issues of their life. I applaud you for speaking up. We need more women like you because there are so many women like you who are afraid to speak up and seek help. For too long the church has taught that depression is a spiritual weakness, not an illness. When depression is viewed as an illness, then treatment becomes possible. Who keeps their need for insulin quiet? Who refuses to seek chemo for cancer? Thank you Liz for baring your soul.
Liz, Thanks for sharing about your depression. I’ve been on meds for about 15 yrs but have been suffering from clinical depression off and on as long as I can remember. I avoided medication for many years for fear of what it would do to me (I was afraid it would make me a zombie) and because I didn’t not trust doctors. I tried herbal remedies which helped somewhat but could not compensate for the low serotonin. I still have some low times but nothing like the deep pit of despair that came before the meds. As much as I would like to never have suffered from depression, I know that it was used by God to draw me closer to him and deepen my faith. I was also blessed by to God to have a wonderful, caring and compassionate husband who stood by me, and prayed for me though the worst times. I too like many others had suffered in silence for years because of the “just get over it” or “just give it to God” attitudes of those around me. God has used my depression so that I could learn compassion and empathy for those around me. And it has also underscored for me the need to share the gospel with others who out of hopelessness see suicide as the only way out. Because I know what that hopelessness feels like, I can understand and empathize with our hurting world and hopefully be used by God to show that there is hope and life in Christ.
Thank you Liz, for sharing. I don’t suffer from depression but my beautiful husband does and he won’t take medication. I’m always worried about him because we’ve had two close calls in the last 8 years. He isn’t a Christian, either, so I feel like his struggles are so tough! But even if we don’t know God, he certainly knows us and I feel his presence in our life so strongly.
God bless you Liz for sharing that you have depression. I do as well
but for a long time didn’t understand what it was. I thought that I
just had a really negative mind and something must be inherently
wrong with me. I’ve learned better since though. It’s good to share
with others. Now when my feet hit thw floor in the morning and negative
thoughts swoop down on me, I thank Jesus that he’s already taken
care of it all!
I’ve wondered for a long time now if I suffer from depression. My husband told me the other day I haven’t seemed happy for ages. In my heart of hearts, my inmost being, I feel what? Content? OK? Just going through the motions? Ambivalent? I do feel like I’m in a pit of despair, and wonder if a change of scenery would help, new job, new church…sigh. The list goes on. Thank you for posting this and for your honesty. It’s given me something to ponder! God bless you!
Ms. Liz,
I just want to send you and the other ladies my love and say I have been in depression before, and it was not pleasant. God was so gracious to me and put me with a wonderful Godly councilor who loved me, and gave me the truth in God’s word. She is my mentor, friend, councilor, and I have adopted her for my mama.
I praise God for you and all the Godly ladies out there that God uses to heal broken and hurting people.
I love you sweet lady 🙂
Dear Liz! Thank you so much for your humility and sweetness in sharing. You’re an inspiration. I’ll remember this on those grey days. *Hug!*
Liz
I had a breakdown in 1983 that led me to discover my depression and begin medication in 1993 because I didn’t want to get hooked on drugs. By the time I started on antidepressants
they were being managed differently and I didn’t need to fear anymore. It was such a balm.
But I still fight it every day.
That article Dr. Ablow was spot on to deep in the soul. He helped see some of my thinking. Very Good!
Your meditation was real really good – spot on as the English may say.
I wish you God’s healing.
What a way to open the floodgates of honesty and love! So many of us (me too, oh yes) struggle here, need God here. Thank you, Liz, for pointing us to Jesus in this deep pool. He is the water. How He knows and wants us to share our stories, over and over, reminding one another, healing one another, stretching across the chasms and reaching into each other’s souls to plant His joy there. Blessings.
I never would have thought you have clicnical depression by watching your videos and reading your books. However, thank you for sharing that you suffer from depression, and take medication, as so many others do. I used to work in a psychiatry office and have seen first hand the fears and rejections those who suffer from this horrible disease have to go through. That just adds to their depression. Anyone who is depressed certainly needs the support of family and friends. I truly believe in God’s miraculous healing touch in the physical and spiritual, but I also know that He has provided doctors for us to help us go through situations. So keep going through sister Liz. You are an inspiration. God Bless You.
This proverb was real blessing to me, as I also know about depression.
It started with terrible anxiety and a breakdown, it was 2009 and I had things wrong physicall so i began to worry which turned to fear as the enemy fed on my worry, I see that now, but not at that time and I did go to the doctor and went on medication and saw a Christian counsellor who showed me that it was a sickness just as a physical, as I thought of it as a terrible thing for an Christian and well meaning Christians did not help any either. I had been thought earlier in my Christian life to speak the word of God, even without feelings, and i really believe there is power in speaking the word of God, specially now that I have experienced it personally.
I am still on a small amount of medication but every day one day at a time I am trusting in God’s love for me and no guilt for meds.
I am so glad you shared your heart Liz , I am sure that many sisters have been and will be encouraged by it. I love you and thanks again for sharing your heart.