Pause
Jesus, this is a prayer for depression, when all seems lost and hopeless. However heavy this depression is, I want to remember and believe that you are greater. Creator God, you made the unfathomable wideness of the universe, the heaviness of the mountains and the depths of the sea, and yet, still you are greater than it all. I thank you for your mercy that knows no limits, reaches every depth and nook and cranny.
Ask
In this prayer for depression, I ask you to be the lamp unto my feet in this time of darkness that seems to go on and on, without any end in sight. I pray for the possibility of a step, and then another, and then another, until a way is made where there was no way before. That your illuminating love will show the way, and be the way.
Listen
The Psalmist cries, “I shall see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living!” in the midst of desperation and adversity. I imagine depression as a storm outside of myself. I see dark clouds, the destructive force of the winds. Crawling on my knees, I seek refuge in your tent, O God, set high in the safety of an unmoving rock. The storm rages outside, while all is still in your tent.
Share
Jesus, you said to your disciples, “I am the way and the truth and the life.” May you lead me out of desolate wilderness, into restoration and community. May my soul be revived by your merciful truths. May I find new, resurrected life in you. Jesus, help me rise out of this depression and into the fullness of life. Grant me the strength to ask for the help I need and the blessing of support.
Reflect
When I return to the stillness of your tent, I catch my breath enough to breathe, enough to listen. Enough to hear your quiet voice, urging me on, always with me. Oh God, my refuge, be my strength. Help me to weather the storm of depression. Help me to take steps out of depression and towards the abundant life you want so dearly for me