Laced With Grace – Christian Devotions

A Life Worth Living…

By Iris Nelson November 16, 2009 Reflection

“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.” ~ Romans 8:1-2

The headline read “Star Soccer Player’s Suicide Leaves Germany Stunned”. Robert Enke, goalkeeper for the German national team (and Hannover 96 goalkeeper) ended his short life this past week. In talking to my mom I found out that Robert Enke suffered from severe depressions. He hid his condition from the public eye. Enke was afraid what people might think of him if he would be in treatment for depressions.

What really struck me when reading his life story was that he really had no hope. He was afraid that he could not measure up to the public opinion. What is even more sad it that Enke knew he was suffering from depression but refused professional help.

We often too refuse professional help, because we fear what the ‘public’ thinks of us. We as followers of Christ have it all together?!? Not really. Well, that might only ring true for me; I do not have it all together. But I do know one thing:

“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” ~ Romans 8:37-39

I am loved by God because of my faith in Christ Jesus. Nothing, absolutely nothing can separate me from that love. I know that I am completely flawed; but none the less He loves me. He gives me hope; He guides my actions if I need more than prayers…

Sweet one, don’t hesitate to seek professional help if nothing else seems to help. Don’t end up like Enke refusing help because of false pride. Your life is worth living! God has surrounded you with people that are more than willing to help. If you are suffering from severe depression, consult your pastor. I know that he has resources to refer you to a Christian counselor.

Lord of Heaven and Earth. Thank You for Your everlasting love for us. Lord, help us to seek out the ones that can help us this side of Heaven. You are the great physician and great counselor. Guide us in our actions of every day life. We are trusting in Your mercy. In the precious name of Jesus ~ Amen.

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6 thoughts on “A Life Worth Living…”

  1. Lori

    As someone who does battle depression I totally agree. Do NOT be afraid to see outside help, it makes all the difference in the world. The difference between not wanting to get out of bed to, getting out of bed to face the day. The difference between only seeing darkness around you, to seeing hope and a future.

    Great article Iris.

  5. bp

    That is so sad. Just last week I found a memorial page for a girl that went to ACU at the same time as me and I recognized her picture. A friend said she suffered from post partum depression and took her life. This is a real problem that I’m just beginning to see how big a problem it is and we may not even know the people we know and love are suffering. Thanks for your post.