THE ENEMIES PLAN FOR YOU PT. 3
The Enemy’s Plan For You – PT. 3: Depression
In this series we’ve looked at how the enemy often works in stages, first doubt, which if left unchecked will lead to discouragement.
If those seeds are left unattended, they can grow heavier, sometimes settling into what the Bible refers to as Spiritual heaviness or becoming “Dismayed”, or to become depressed.
Our verse for this series remains:
1 Peter 5:8 — “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”
But in the context of this subject, God encourages Joshua to guard against becoming depressed or dismayed;
Joshua 1:9
9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
Let me say this as clearly and compassionately as I can: many people experience a type of clinical depression, which can involve physical, emotional, and chemical factors.
It is not weakness, and it is not a lack of faith.
It is a real burden, and wise help, spiritually, medically, and through healthy relationships — is often part of God’s provisions for healing.
What we’re addressing here is the spiritual side of heaviness. And burdens, the way the enemy tries to use darkness and isolation to accuse, and silence a believer’s heart.
The enemy loves isolation. He may whisper, “You’re alone in this situation. No one understands. Nothing will ever change.”
But isolation is not where God wants us.
Spiritual heaviness often seeks to drain three things: Energy, Joy, and Hope.
The enemy says, “Stay quiet.” God says, “Speak the truth.”
The enemy is saying, “Withdraw from others.” God says, “Reach out to the people who love you.”
Sometimes the most spiritual act is a whisper: “Lord, help me today.” That prayer is never ignored.
If your heart feels heavy, this is not the time for shame — it is the time for support. Stay near the Word. Stay near God’s people. Stay honest in prayer. Small light still breaks real darkness.
The enemy’s plan may be to press you down.
God’s plan is to lift you up.
