I read in an article this week that depression among adults in the United States rose from 8.5 percent to 32.8 percent in 2020 and 2021. That’s 1 in 3 adults who are dealing with depression. I know that many people feel alone and afraid in the midst of all that’s going on in our world. And I know that there are many factors that can contribute to depression—and it’s good to seek professional help when we experience hopelessness. But I also know that God is always with us, and we need to continually choose to remember that. It doesn’t just happen naturally.
In my devotions this week, I was led to 2 Timothy 4:16-17 where Paul talks about being alone in prison. Listen to what he says: “At my first defense, no one came to my support, but everyone deserted me. May it not be held against them. But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength…”
I imagine this time for Paul was depressing, having no one show up to support him. I would guess he felt alone and maybe even afraid. But he points out the fact that the Lord stood at his side. And Paul goes on to share that, because of God’s strength, he was able to share the Gospel in that very place of hardship…and God eventually delivered him from that place of desolation.
I know these times we are in can be depressing and isolating. And I know we can feel alone and afraid at times. This is why more than ever we need to turn to the Lord. We believe Jesus is the answer to every human need, which means that He is the answer for depression and loneliness. In Matthew 28:20 Jesus says, “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
We are never alone. God is with us and His desire is to meet us right where we are. When was the last time we called out to Him? When was the last time we prayed for Him to meet us where we are and to be our strength and comfort? God is here and I encourage you to take time to pray and to talk with Him. Let Him help you with whatever you’re experiencing. Let Him stand by your side and be your strength!
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