I started this article off by quoting a very familiar passage of scripture. This scripture speaks to the force that comes against a spirit of heaviness. For we must understand, even though depression is a medical term, this is still a spiritual condition. Depression is a manifestation of the spirit of heaviness. The spirit of heaviness comes to dim your vision. It does not allow you to see truth clearly. The scripture says that the garment of praise counteracts that spirit. In the Old Testament, clothing was usually symbolic of a mindset or a way of thinking. It is a mindset of praise, thanksgiving and gratefulness that combats this beast.
In the midst of hardship, what do I have to be grateful about? As cliché as it sounds, the fact that you are still breathing is something to be thankful about. Every moment you are still around gives God another opportunity to do just what He has said concerning your life. It is an insult to the enemy when you begin to give praise to God after an attack. It speaks of God’s Lordship in your life. It boldly says, “whatever you did may’ve stung but He is still God.” With this realization intact, the realization that He is still God, you can begin to see clearly. Your thoughts began to shift from hopeless to hopeful. You began to remember that “greater is he that is in me.” (1 John 4:4).
Sustained gratefulness is often that is something that is greatly overlooked in our teaching. Learning how to continuously be grateful connects with so many other principles. One of these principles is stewardship. When you have wrapped your mind around sustained gratefulness, you are likely to become a better steward. Why? The definition of gratefulness is being appreciative of benefits received. When you are continually grateful, it means that you continually acknowledge His benefits. Psalm 103:2-5 speaks of his benefits: forgiveness from iniquity, healing, redemption from the pit, a crown of steadfast love and mercy and the satisfying of your soul with that which is good. When you understand His benefits, you refuse to waste your life being upset about what you don’t have. You also begin to value the things that you do have. Depression often finds its roots in a sense of diminished value. When you begin to understand the riches that have been afforded to you through Calvary, you will see how much God thinks of you. You will clearly understand how much you are worth to Him! Be Grateful! Walk in joy! Stay on The Path!
ALSO READ: Unlocking Potential by Overcoming Depression Pt. 1
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About the Author: Path contributing writer Calvin Walker has been writing editorial content for Path MEGAzine since 2007. Calvin’s ability to break down the word of God with thought provoking analogies and real life analysis makes an impact on Christians seeking a closer walk with God. An accomplished author, Walker released his debut book titled “The Gallery” early 2010. Click here to read excerpts and purchase Walkers’ book.
