De-Masking Depression

Often, when people are going through painful experiences in their life, they have a tendency to "sweep them under the rug" and ignore them. Ignored feelings are never healed. By "masking" our depression, we try to protect our hearts and hide who we really are and what we really do not want to face. Paula White is famous for saying, "You can't conquer what you don't confront". You can't conquer it if you don't face it. De-masking is about facing the situation that is keeping your from being free in your mind. People who are depressed often prefer dark spaces and dark rooms over light. There is a quote that reads: "Never let anyone dull your shine".  Never let anyone, any situation, any circumstance or any problem dull your shine. 

Jesus is the light of the world. It is His light that we need when depression tries to keep us in darkness. Never be afraid to admit the painful truths about your life to God. Allow Him to work through your pain to bring you healing. Ignored or denied feelings will not go away. Therefore, face your feelings today, cast your cares upon the Lord and allow the joy of the Lord to be your strength. 

How do I 'De-mask Depression'? 

1. Admit your pain to God and a trusted friend.

"There is a time for everything...a time to be silent and a time to speak..." (Ecclesiastes 3:1,7).

2. Allow yourself to grieve over your losses.

"You, God, see the trouble of the afflicted, you consider their grief and take it in hand. The victims commit themselves to you..." (Psalm 10:34). 

3. Acknowledge your dependence on the Lord to set you free emotionally.

"Out of my distress I called on the Lord; the Lord answered me and set me free" (Psalm 118:5 ESV). 

Seven scriptures to help you get through today in peace: 

"The Lord will give strength to His people; The Lord will bless His people with peace" (Psalm 29:11 NKJV).

"You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you" (Isaiah 26:3 NIV).

"I've told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I've conquered the world" (John 16:33 MSG).

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid" (John 14:27 NIV).

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing [through the experience of your faith] that by the power of the Holy Spirit you will abound in hope and overflow with confidence in His promises" (Romans 15:13 AMP).

"In peace I will both lie down and sleep; for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety" (Psalm 4:8 ESV).

"Be prepared. You're up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it's all over but the shouting you'll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You'll need them throughout your life" (Ephesians 6:13-15 MSG).