By Nathan Rice

I’m sure we’re all familiar with the term “cliffhanger.” It’s when a TV show, movie or book doesn’t fully complete the story, typically leaving the characters in a precarious situation and the audience at the end of their seats. TV shows are especially good at these when they want to ensure their audience will return for the following season. They leave you hanging, unsure of where the story will go.

Sometimes that’s how those who battle depression feel about their very lives. Many times depression makes us worry about what the future holds, and we’re not sure how we’ll handle the next attack from the dog of depression. How will our stories end? Will we one day stand victoriously over the lame body of the dog, or will the dog eventually put an end to us?

While I have struggled with depression, I can confidently state that my life is not one that is a constant cliffhanger. I have found a hope in the middle of this battle. I do not doubt that I will be able to withstand any attack the dog brings my way. I know one day my dog will die, and I will have withstood everything it tried to do to me.

This confidence is in me because I met a man named Jesus who radically changed my life. He offered me a way to the Heavenly Father. The creator of the universe decided that He wanted me to know Him, and He sacrificed His only Son to make that possible.

I have found my purpose in life, and no attack from the dog of depression can ever change that fact. I know why I am here and what I am supposed to do. This allows me a confidence to stand strong, even when my feelings and emotions make me want to curl up and shrivel away.

Likewise, I know I am never alone. When the dog attacks and the pain is great, I have a Heavenly Father who allows me to rest in His arms. He never judges my tears. He only wipes them away as He gently reminds me that He is there and that He loves me.

When the dog whispers lies in my ears, I am able to turn to the promises of the One who has never failed me. I remember how He has proven His love for me over and over again. I stand firm, not in my own strength, but in the arms of the One who has promised to never let me fall.

I can’t imagine battling the dog of depression on my own. I literally shudder at the thought of trying to withstand the attacks by myself. I’m honestly not sure if I’d be here today if I had not been rescued by the One who brought me back to the Father. The dog cannot take my life, because I have already given my life to the King of Kings, and He is greater than all.

The great news, and the hope for all those who may struggle with depression, is that Jesus is still looking for people to rescue. You don’t have to face the dog of depression on your own! There is a God who offers peace during attacks. There is a joy that is possible even in middle of depression. Don’t let your life be a cliffhanger. Give your life to the One who will plant your feet on a foundation so secure that you will never be moved.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline phone number is 800-273-8255.

Nathan Rice is a Hampton Roads native and can be reached at nrice@abnb.org.