Where is God when I’m depressed?
David said, “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.” (Psalm 23:4)
Many of us have heard the poem Footprints In The Sand, a wonderful visual of how God is with us through dark valleys. Near the end of the poem, the author says that there were always two sets of footprints in the sand. Then she noticed that in the times during her life where she was sad and alone there was only one set of footprints. When she asked the Lord why He said, “It was then that I carried you”. Take a moment there.
Sometimes it feels like in the tough times of life that God is nowhere to be found. It might even seem like you’re running in circles around yourself, looking for Him. The truth is, He’s been there the whole time. Right there on your back, discretely tapping your shoulder to nudge you to make a certain turn, or move.
His nature is good and He cannot lie. His word is truth and says in Deuteronomy 31:6,
“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you, He will not fail you or forsake you.”
God won’t let us go through life alone. He is always there for us when we need Him.
Take David for example. He certainly led a blessed life. He became the King of Israel, was loved by his countrymen and was respected by the men of the military. However, there were many times when David was struggling with the difficulties of life. We can even see in Psalm 42 where David was struggling with his own depression, but he knew that even though his son Absalom was trying to kill him, God was still with him. David spoke to his own heart and reminded himself that God hadn’t left him. in Psalm 42:11 it says,
“Why am I so depressed? Why this strife within me? “Put your hope in God, for I will still praise Him, my Savior and my God.”
David resolved in his heart that despite the circumstances of his life, he would still hope, praise, and trust God.
When times are difficult, we can look at the response David had, reminding our hearts that God is a good Father, and it’s in His nature to be good, and only good.
Take a moment to read Footprints In The Sand, then ask the Lord where He is when you walk through the difficulties of life.