Don’t Divorce Devotions

Q: I am a 19-year-old college sophomore. My parents recently divorced, but my wonderful Christian childhood home became a war zone several years ago. Family devotions disappeared, and going to church became a distant memory. Now neither of my parents even pray, and I am tempted to give up on God too! I am on antidepressants. What can help me get off medication?

A: We’re sorry to hear about the challenges you’re facing, but are glad that you’re reaching out for help. This is a sensitive and complex situation that may be best addressed with an appropriately qualified health professional. With what you’re going through, it may be hard to hold on to the anchors that may have once held you steady in your childhood, but despite the pain of your parents’ divorce, their abandonment of faith, and your struggle with depression, please don’t give up. Remember that while connecting with God strengthens and comforts you, any decision to change or stop medication must always be made in consultation with your doctor.

On days when depression weighs heavily, every moment of reflection and whispered prayer counts. The Psalms express a full range of human emotions—let them give voice to your experiences. Psalm 42:11 acknowledges both despair and hope: “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God” (NIV). Knowing that you belong to God and are a steward of your body (1 Cor. 6:19, 20) will affect your choices about health, relationships, and personal conduct and help you affirm your identity and purpose. Daily devotions can help you cope with life’s stresses and can even provide a moral compass for decisions common even to 19-year-olds.

Let God be your anchor, your fortress, and your strength.

So please, don’t divorce your devotions. They’re a refuge in time, a source of strength, and a reminder that you’re loved unconditionally. Let God be your anchor, your fortress, and your strength. Your devotional time with Him is a lifeline, a quiet space where you can be honest about your pain, doubts, and hopes. While you seek to transition off antidepressants, your devotional life can complement the process, providing emotional support and perspective. Don’t divorce your devotions . . . instead, let them be safe havens to process your experiences, find comfort, and nurture hope for your future. Studies have shown that spiritual practices can positively impact mental health, though they’re not a substitute for appropriate medical care. 

Engaging in regular devotional practices can promote healthier lifestyle choices, such as improved diet, regular exercise, and better sleep. Starting and ending your day with prayers of gratitude may reduce nighttime anxiety and improve your sleep quality. Find a campus ministry or a local church group to provide you with a supportive community. Interacting with others who share your faith can offer emotional support, reduce feelings of isolation, and increase a sense of belonging.

You are loved, you are valued, and you have purpose. Please don’t abandon your daily connecting with God, even in the smallest ways. He’s there, ready to meet you exactly where you are, supporting and leading you through every step of your healing journey. “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Ps. 34:18, NIV). May His SHALOM be yours!