Depression Does Not Have to be Generational! (Day 6 of our challenge against seasonal depression) - EncouragementMama.com
*Please note that I am not a licensed physician or medical professional of any kind. All advice, tips, and resources on this blog are given purely from personal testimony, Biblical wisdom, and encouragement. If at any time, you feel hopeless or in despair, please do not hesitate to call your physician, seek medical help, or call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. (Find out more HERE.)
Is your depression rooted in generational sin, or is that even a thing?
As I shared in the video, I’m a bit skeptical when it comes to the concept of generational sin. I’m not saying that sinful behaviors cannot be passed on, but I am saying that each of us has a choice when it comes to what we allow into our lives. I am not accountable for the sins of my parents or grandparents. I am accountable for my own walk with God.
For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God; for it is written, “As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.” So then each of us will give an account of himself to God. Romans 14:10-12
There comes a time in every person’s life when they must make the decision NOT to follow in the footsteps of generations past–when it comes to sin or unfavorable habits. No matter what we observed, learned, or experienced, we have the choice to say, “No more,” to anything that is harmful to us or contrary to God’s word.
So, here is the big question for today’s challenge:
Is it possible that your struggle with depression comes from something you learned as a child? Did you adopt some of the behaviors of your parents or grandparents as your own way of coping?
If so, don’t be discouraged! I have GREAT NEWS for you.
“Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, declares the Lord God. Repent and turn from all your transgressions, lest iniquity be your ruin.Cast away from you all the transgressions that you have committed, and make yourselves a new heart and a new spirit! Ezekiel 18:30-31 ESV
Did you know, that at any moment, you can confess your sins to God and He will be faithful and just to forgive?
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
If you’re like me, admitting that my depression–at times–is a stronghold of sin, is difficult. After all, feelings of depression seem like emotions we can’t help or control. And, in some instances, such as periods of grief or crisis, we may be tossed into seasons of depression that will continue until we go through the emotional stages and processes of healing. Those seasons are not sinful, but situational.
However, if our depression is more of a “rut” or “habit” that has drawn us away from the Lord, it may be worth considering as sin in our lives.
The best part is, God is such an understanding Father, He sees the temptations we face and provides a way of escape. The big question is, how do we recognize the way of escape?
No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.
1 Corinthians 10:13 NKJV
To recognize something is to notice it, spot it, or perceive it. If you were in a large crowd and needed to spot someone, how would you go about it? You wouldn’t hide in a corner with your eyes closed. You would actively look for the person amongst the crowd of people. And before long, you would recognize the familiar face you were seeking.
So it is with God’s way of escape. He provides it and sometimes makes it really clear to us. But at other times, we need to actively look for it until we recognize it.
My go-to place of escape, especially when I’m feeling down, are the Psalms. Psalm 100, 102, and 103 are sure to brighten your countenance. In fact, on really hard days, I turn to the Psalms and read until I can’t help but break into a smile. And you know what? It happens every single time!
Today’s Action:
Today, I want you to actively look for the “escape route” that God has provided in your season of depression.
It may be an unexpected email or phone call from a friend.
It may be an opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
It may be some free time that has opened up for much-needed rest.
It may be an amazing view of God’s creation that takes your breath away and reminds you of His presence.
What is God’s way of escape?
The next time you are tempted to sink into a season of depression, ask God to show you the way out of it. Look for specific ways in which He provides an escape from your depression. And if you are led, I would love to hear how the Lord has provided a way of escape for you today, or in seasons past. (jennifer@encouragementmama.com)
Always an email away,
Jennifer
