If you are a Christian who experiences prolonged periods of discouragement and depression, you are likely to feel guilty about it. That guilt will often compound the problem. It is very common for a Christian believer to become apologetic, even embarrassed when having to confess that they just can't seem to shake off their funk.

It is easy to assume that once we commit our way to the Lord, that our darkness and despair should fade in the light of His presence. While we will certainly find encouragement and strength through God's Spirit, we are still humans prone to events and emotions that beat down our resolve to be joyful.

The Forty-second Psalm is a moving portrayal of human emotion in its most genuine and vulnerable state. In his book, A Thirst for God, Sherwood Wirt bluntly says of the author of these Psalms, "He is DEPRESSED!" Millions of us are. Whether David's depression was rooted in psychological, biochemical, political or another explanation, we don't know and it doesn't matter. The Forty-second Psalm holds up a mirror to the soul of all humankind.

The Bible clearly states that "we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual wickedness in high places" (Ephesians 6) What better weapon can Satan wield than depression and discouragement?

Our hope lies in knowing that God has promised to help us "stand firm" and "overcome". He may choose to immediately and miraculously heal us, or more often, He uses a variety of methods and messengers just as He would with other infirmities. Doctors, counselors, teachers, family, and friends become the instruments of His healing. Of course we all desire immediate relief from those trials and discouraging periods in our lives. However, God's rescue is never early and never late. It is always right on time so that we derive the full measure of strength and blessing that He intended in advance so that His power is made perfect in us (2 Cor.12:19).

Some helpful links:

• Signs of Depression

• Male Depression: Understanding the Issues

• Depression & Anxiety: Exercise eases symptoms

• Depression in Teens