I’m gathering materials for worship on Sunday, and came across this prayer. I will be praying it tonight, and probably many nights hence. The black dog of depression is nipping at my heels, and I’m struggling right now.
I am so depressed tonight, O God.
I feel as if I am the sole target of an enemy barrage–that all the demons
of hell are bent on damning my soul for eternity.
I remember your precious promises, but I do not witness their
fulfillment.
I talk to people about Your love, and they drown my zeal with scorn.
I step forth to carry out Your will, but I feel no sense of accomplishment.
I mouth words, wave my arms, and beat the air with fruitless endeavor.
Then I fall like a wounded warrior, bone-weary, defeated, and lonely.
And I wonder if You are truly my God, and if I am really Your child.
Consume, God, these demons that depress, these enemies that plague my
soul.
May the whirlwind of Your Spirit sweep them out of my life forever.
May I awaken in the morning with a heart full of joy, and with the
strength and the courage to walk straight and secure in the dangerous
and difficult paths before me.
~Leslie Brandt
I pray, too, for any of you who are hurting or struggling right now. You are not alone.
birch & raven 