Praying
TO OVERCOME ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION
Helpful Scripture
Thessalonians 5:8 - But since we belong to the day, let us be self-controlled, [and notice that that’s one of the aspects of the operation of the Holy Spirit in our minds; He makes us self-controlled] putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. (NIV)
John 10:10 - The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.
Philippians 4:6-7 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Isaiah 41:10 - 10 fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Proverbs 3:5-6 - 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Romans 8 - There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death
Psalm 23
Starting Points
Depression can be overwhelming and debilitating. You may feel lethargic, loss of focus or appetite or have no energy for life's daily tasks. No matter what depression looks like, it's common for many to struggling with - Christians are no exception. You are not alone and God cares deeply for you!
“The garment of praise in place of the spirit of heaviness.” Isaiah 61:3
You know what the spirit of heaviness is, that’s depression. That’s exactly what it is. But when the spirit of heaviness, when depression assails us, God has provided something to keep that spirit away from us: the garment of praise. When we put on the garment of praise, and begin to praise God and worship him, then that spirit of heaviness (of depression) just can’t get at us. He’s defeated. The garment of praise surrounds us, protects our whole being, our whole personality against that spirit of heaviness. So, that’s one of the remedies that the Holy Spirit shows us in Scripture against discouragement and depression, the garment of praise. Any time the spirit of heaviness comes, put on the garment of praise. In fact, the real thing to do is live with that garment on because a person who’s always praising God doesn’t have time to be discouraged or depressed.
Take the helmet of salvation - the helmet of hope. Put it on. Cover your mind. Protect your thoughts; bring them under control and in line with the Word of God and experience the glorious results.
How Do I Pray?
“It shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered.”
I put Isaiah 61:3 and Joel 2:32 together and prayed a very specific prayer: “God, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ - according to Your Word - I’m asking you to deliver me from this spirit of heaviness.” And when I prayed that specific, scriptural prayer I was delivered.
Lord, please grant [Name] the courage to face each day, even when it feels like an uphill battle. May they find moments of joy and glimpses of your love that remind them they are never alone.
In the midst of the storm, help [Name] to cling to your promises and to trust in your unwavering love. Let your presence be a constant source of strength and may your peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard their heart and mind.