Proverbs 18:14 says, The human spirit can endure in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear?
Everyday I see the truth of this verse played out in the Walk-in Clinic where I work. If you come into see me I can sew up your laceration, give you something to ease your cold symptoms, or splint your broken arm. Those are easy. It’s the broken spirit that’s hard to deal with.
Depression is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. About 6.8 million adults are dealing with Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Social Anxiety affects about 15 million people, with women twice as likely to be affected as men. And these statistics don’t even take into account the millions dealing with OCD, PTSD or other mental health disorders.
Our treatment options for these conditions are limited. Medicine can only help so much and comes with unwanted side effects. Counseling also has an important role, but is not the full answer.. Lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise can make a difference, but when it comes right down to it there is only one real solution.
David found that solution. David dealt with depression as evidenced by his cry in Psalm 42:11, “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me?” Yet he continues, “Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”
Trust in God is the only real cure for a broken spirit. Other therapies may help relieve symptoms, but they can’t heal the heart. Only God can do that. He promises in Ezekiel 36:26, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you…”
This morning, if your spirit is crushed and your soul downcast, “Put your hope in God.” He loves you with an everlasting love. Give Him your heart and let Him “put a new spirit in you” today.
God bless and have a wonderful new day!