Psalm 69
13 But I pray to you, Lord,
in the time of your favor;
in your great love, O God,
answer me with your sure salvation.
14 Rescue me from the mire,
do not let me sink;
deliver me from those who hate me,
from the deep waters.
15 Do not let the floodwaters engulf me
or the depths swallow me up
or the pit close its mouth over me.
16 Answer me, Lord, out of the goodness of your love;
in your great mercy turn to me.
17 Do not hide your face from your servant;
answer me quickly, for I am in trouble.
18 Come near and rescue me;
David cried out to the Lord for help. Notice
there are no conditions here, no confession of sins, no asking for more faith, and no statement of weakness or lack of connection to God – just a cry for help to his creator because David could not overcome his depression on his own. He always cried for help.
What does that mean for a person today? How do you ask for help? Start with a complete physical exam to see if you may have a thyroid problem or one of many other conditions that can cause depression and anxiety. Tell the examining doctor that you need help to discover the origin of the depression.
If there is no underlying condition, see a psychiatrist for your body and do not be ashamed to do so. Perhaps medication can take the edge off your depression so you can reach the threshold of recovery through stabilizing the symptoms that are making you a prisoner to your condition. A good psychiatrist can also suggest other things you can do for your body to help your depression.
Next comes the soul. See a psychotherapist who can define your depression as it relates to your mind, will, and emotions. Reach out to friends who can be a listening ear and encourage you; you’ll quickly be able to sift out those friends who can help you and those who can’t. And there are many other things.
Finally comes the spirit. Once you have reached a stability of body and soul, it is time to bring God into the equation. This is not a linear progression, so you may have sought out a spiritual advisor as a first step or anywhere along the line of dealing with your body and your soul.
