Shorter, darker days are not just indications of winter kicking in, but also the depression that comes along with it. You barely made it through Thanksgiving, and now you’ve got Christmas and the New Year to try and get through. This, on top of the pandemic, can be a nightmare for those who are already struggling through life.
The pressure to put on a smile, to be ‘the hostess with the mostess’, to financially live up to other’s expectations. It’s no wonder you feel depressed or have taken to drink and even drugs, to hide or numb your true feelings about this holiday season.
Whilst I don’t judge you for the negative feelings or actions that have consumed you, I can’t let you think that it is normal to carry on that way. Not when God says otherwise – and promises to free you from seasonal depression and all other kinds of unhappiness:
… the one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out.
(John 6:37)
In other words, give these empty, anxious, depressive feelings to God. He will not send you away; He will heal your soul and transform your life. But you have to take that step of coming to Him.
Emptiness, depression, and anxiety are diseases of the soul. Treat your soul by learning to depend on God – you have direct access to Him. Build up your spiritual life because the condition of your soul is what will determine your overall health and wellbeing.
Life will always happen, disappointments will always be there, holiday seasons come and go, but when you have a firm spiritual foundation, you can deal with whatever comes without it getting you down.
Here’s a tip for this holiday season: Don’t put the usual pressures on yourself this year. Instead of investing in society’s traditions of December, take this time to invest in your spirit.
A strong spirit equals a strong mind, which leaves no room for seasonal depression.
May the God of the Bible bless you.
Bishop Joshua Fonseca
