Becoming Complete Again

Becoming Complete Again

May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. Ephesians 3:19

“When Geoff died, I didn’t know where to turn,” Karla said. “I changed jobs, but that only brought a new set of stressors. I couldn’t afford the house payment, so I had to sell and downsize. It was the worst summer ever. I’ve never felt so alone.”

In the span of six months, Karla had endured three major events that had changed her life for the worse. No wonder she felt the way she did.

“Do you have anyone you can talk to?” I asked.

“I talk to my pastor. But I’m exhausted, and all I do is cry.”

“I’m glad you’re continuing to go to church and to meet with your pastor. Having a church family to rely on can be an important lifeline. What did your pastor suggest?”

“He said, ‘Lean into God and read his Word every day, even if you don’t feel like it.’”

“As your medical doctor, I couldn’t agree more,” I said. Even when Karla was exhausted and didn’t fully understand the passages she was reading, God would meet her there, lift her up, and let her experience his love. She seemed to be doing the right things for her spiritual health, but her symptoms suggested she might also need treatment for depression.

“Here’s a prescription,” I said, “but I want you to continue to meet with your pastor as often as you need to and meet with God daily.”

A few months later, during one of her regular appointments, Karla mentioned that she had met a man at church.

“First, he asked if he could help me in any way. Later, he started asking me out to dinner. I’m not sure. Is it too soon?”

“Karla, our timing isn’t the same as God’s. But if God is in this, then all will be good.”

The next time I saw Karla, the transformation in her outlook—from darkness to a new lightness of being—was incredible to witness and something only God could have accomplished. We stopped her medication because God had cured her depression, and she was planning her wedding. She was truly a new creation.

TODAY’S RX

Lean into God and read his Word every day, even if you don’t feel like it.

Father, thank you for faithfully showing me the way when I’m lost. Though I do not always know the direction to go, you guide me and comfort me through your Word, showing me examples of your love. Continue to show me the way.