I’m tired of feeling restless- tired of not getting enough sleep, tired of working night shifts for almost 30 years, tired of doing the same kind of job, tired of high expectations, tired of dreaming the same old dreams, tired of hopelessly hoping for better things to come.
I am just tired of being tired.
You are probably reading this getting restless and uncomfortable yourself wondering, “ What is wrong with her? Christians are supposed to be joyful and upbeat all the time! Not depressed!”
Contrary to popular belief, Christians are not exempted from feeling lonely and alone. We need not only God’s truth but love in the form of Spirit and his people. It takes more than words by themselves.
If you are depressed, you need to know that you are not alone. Jesus described His experience in the Garden of Gethsemane by telling his disciples, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” (Matthew 26:38)
Some people believe that depression is a sign of some spiritual, or moral failure, some kind of internal conflict that comes when we miss the mark of perfection. But when we stray off God’s path, he gives us signals to help correct us. (Psalm 32:3).
Sin in itself does not cause all the pain we sometimes endure. We can be lonely for reasons that we have no control over and which is at times not our fault. Those who try to deny it or use will power and act happy all the time although they are hurting inside, suffer more in the long run. But those who put their faith and trust in God and act real, admit their weaknesses and seek wise counsel, end up in a much better place.
“It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees.” (Psalms 119:71). In my case, not getting any decent sleep, fatigue, and disappointments in things beyond my control left me feeling like a fool. But as I seek God more and develop intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, who is trustworthy and true, who is full of mercy and love me unconditionally, I experience peace and security, that no one and nothing in this world can offer.
Yes, I am feeling like a fool when I know God is waiting for me all along ready to help, while I continue to be stubborn and go on my way.
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; but fools despise wisdom and understanding.” (Proverbs 1:7)
Dear Lord,
You alone are my strength, my guide and my life. All my hopes and expectations are in You, that I need no other to fulfill them. I put You in charge of every detail of my life, even the sadness and pain I feel in my heart. You are all I need in every situation . In Jesus Name, Amen.
“When I fall, I will arise; when I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me. “ Micah 7:8
Gloria Tiquia
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Gloria, what a good testimony for every Christian to read. You are absolutely right about the "falseness" of people thinking that Christians are supposed to be happy and cheerful all the time. Christians are "human." Even Christ had to get away by Himself at times. David got depressed and thought that he was alone. Elijah was depressed and thought that God had abandoned him. God came to him with a still small voice. John the Baptist had to seek assurance that he was not alone. Jesus on the cross cried out because God had forsaken Him....God brings us to places like you describe to show us that our happiness is not dependant on our circumstances, but on our faith and trust in Christ....Your testimony will be an encouragement to others. ... Keep on keeping on...Helen
so very true. If we only truly rely on God, that's when he begins to act in our life instead of just having Him around conveniently. Very helpful and inspiring word. God is faithful! -Martin
Oh, Gloria... There is nothing foolish about you - you are FULL OF GOD'S WISDOM! Look at what you wrote here: "But as I seek God more and develop intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, who is trustworthy and true, who is full of mercy and love me unconditionally, I experience peace and security, that no one and nothing in this world can offer." That is the path God wants us to take and you have stated it perfectly! Pure wisdom, Sis! God bless you and thank you for sharing such an inspired lesson with us! Love, SiS Peggy
AMEN sis for another God filled message that is inspired by the Holy spirit. God is the only one who can give us the peace and the calm that we all want so very much. He is the anchor of our soul and the lifter of our heads. I love you sis, Sharon