Held in Christ: A Three-Day Sanctuary Devotional About Faith Amid DepressionSample

Jesus’ Life Lived for You

It’s easy to assume that the Christian life depends on our ability to live it well. This is especially true in a society driven by individualism and self-determination. We think it is our job to show up, stay faithful, and be strong. But what happens when depression makes that feel impossible? In such experiences, we might feel unable to pray or worship. We might struggle to feel anything at all.

Galatians 2:20 reminds us that the Christian life doesn’t begin with our effort. It begins with our union with Christ. This is not abstract theology. This is deeply personal. Being united with Christ means that Jesus doesn’t just give us an example to follow. He doesn’t simply tell us how to live a holy life. Jesus has lived the holy life we cannot and has given his life to us. His perfect trust, his love of the Father, his compassion for the hurting—all of it is offered in our place.

I remember a conversation with a pastor named Alan. He described a moment when he sat on the edge of his bed, unable to move. As a pastor, Alan was someone people looked up to as a spiritual exemplar. But depression had hollowed out everything, including all aspects of his spiritual life. Alan told me, “I wish I could say it was my love for God that held me up, but it wasn’t.” Reflecting on that moment, Alan said he couldn’t depend on his own strength. He wasn’t quoting scripture. He wasn’t singing worship songs. He could barely breathe. But looking back, he could recognize that his life was still held in Christ.

Depression may convince you that you’re not living the life God wants. But Jesus has already lived that life in your place and on your behalf. The one who loved you and gave himself for you is still alive, and “your life is hidden with Christ in God” (Col. 3:3).

Reflection Questions: How might you find comfort and rest today in reflecting on Jesus’ life lived for you? If depression makes you feel like you're failing spiritually, what would it look like to remember that your worth doesn't depend on your performance but on Christ's life in you?

Prayer: Jesus, thank you that my life is held in yours. When I am unable to live the spiritual life I want to, remind me that you live in me and for me. Amen.