“Surely God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.”  Isaiah 12:2

Since spring of last year I have struggled with anxiety and depression. Fighting it has taken a good deal of my time and energy. Even though I know many other high school students deal with mental health issues, it still can make me feel isolated and like I have no one. It is often the voice of depression that overpowers everything.

Sometimes I feel like I will never feel better, but the people in my life who love me say “it WILL get better”. I do feel God in the kindness of other people. Love and caring shown to me is a sign that God is with me and I do not need to live in fear. Depression and anxiety will not get the best of me.

There is a choir piece called “The First Song of Isaiah” by Jack Noble White. I recently heard this piece when I went to church. It instantly resonated with me and got stuck in my head for many days. I still sing it from time to time.

When I hear the First Song of Isaiah, it gives me some hope for the future. It reminds me I can trust in God and not be afraid. I will not listen to the voice of depression but I will listen to the voice of God. For anyone who would like to experience this song of hope, you can find recordings of “The First Song of Isaiah” on Youtube.

Prayer: Dear God, Thank you for always being present in my life. Even though sometimes I can’t feel your presence, I am reminded over and over again that I can trust in you and not be afraid.