Fighting Depression this Winter

I wanted to write a quick post on what is on my heart today.

How many of you are ready for the sun to come out with some warmer temperatures? I know I am.

There are some that are dealing with depression around this time of year.  The days are shorter and its seems as though all we have been doing lately is staying indoors because of the cold arctic temperatures.  For so many this can lead into depression.

I remember when the kids were little and days like today seemed to never end.  You would get up, make breakfast, clean the house, keep the kids in one place, usually the toy room because you can’t go outside with four little ones under 2 1/2 in negative degree weather, make lunch, dinner, clean the house, have a conversation with your husband when he gets home from work as you try not to be jealous that he gets adult conversation all day, put the kids to bed, put yourself in bed and do it all over again the next day and the next day and the next day.

I remember those days and can I just be honest….

I HATED IT!! (Don't judge me :-( )

Cold weather, dark skies, holidays are over, family is thousands of miles away, and you’ve turned into a hermit.

Or maybe you’re depressed this winter because you’re worried about money which means you can’t go anywhere or do anything,  you’re overwhelmed, feeling left out because all your friends on instagram are going places and doing things while your home with the kids sipping your fourth cup of hot chocolate.

So today I want to encourage you with this:

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”  Isaiah 41:10

In those times you feel alone, He is with you.

In those times you feel as though this season will never end, He is with you.

In those times you feel as though you can’t go another day, He is with you.

But there is a promise in that verse – I will strengthen you and help you

Believe it.

Know it.

Let it pierce those feelings of sadness and depression.

Allow Him to bring you joy and hope for the season of sunshine that comes ahead.

“For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11