(This was written several years after being in a Christian Recovery support group.)

Depression is a horrible foe. It’s like a cancerous fire that burns, raging out of control, incinerating your soul. Its deadly tendrils pull you under embers of hopelessness so overwhelming and painful, you lose the will to go on.

Were it not for my belief in an intimate, caring, wonderfully compassionate Redeemer, I’m almost certain I would have taken drastic measures to end my life years ago. Life without God is nothing but a cycle of futility, leading you into a parched desert of hopelessness.

Everyday we stand at the threshold of eternity. Choice is an awesome gift and responsibility God gave us. The mysterious drawing of the Holy Spirit, giving me faith and courage to take the next step is a gift I cannot fathom.

I know ultimately, there is no dilemma too aggravated, no despair too dark, or no matter too hard for God to bring release and victory. When I focus on Him and what He has done in the past—I know I can wait in full assurance with fond anticipation for what He is about to do. He is most worthy and deserving of my praise and worship. He gives me courage to go on with joyful expectancy.

Lord, thank you for rekindling hope, by grace, day by day.

Linda Dunn
June 26, 2000