“I went through a deep depression many years ago. I tried to read my Bible, but the pages were blank to my eyes. I couldn’t get more than ‘dear God help’ out in my prayer life, and when I went to my church family for help, I was condemned and told I needed to read my Bible, pray more, serve more.

I was.

Truthfully, I was hurting inside and needed the real Jesus, not checklist Christianity.

All I had in me was to sit at His feet daily. One day the dark cloud lifted and I was filled with a joy I had never known before. Even though I had been all in with Him for several years at this point, I still didn’t know what it felt like to experience a supernatural joy in the midst of hard times. Since that day His joy in me and through me has been a constant well that never runs dry even during my hard seasons.

His joy is truly my strength!

Nothing I did outside of learning to still myself at His feet could accomplish this.

It was by faith that I sat in His presence, believing He would meet me. It wasn’t instantaneous, but I didn’t give up and He showed up!

This cycle of finding our worth and value in

‘doing’ is breaking our Father’s heart. He does not want to see His children trying so hard to find their worth outside of Him, ‘worn out by religion,’ trying to ‘carry their cross’ in their own strength, believing that life in Christ is supposed to feel heavy and hard.

It’s not supposed to be so complicated.

As a Church Body, we have complicated what Jesus paid for.” –Ripple Effect

 “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” —Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG)

If you are going through a season of depression because of life circumstances, or it’s something you battle, turn to Him. Sit with Him. Quiet your heart and let Him meet you. He is faithful.

Much love, J