Healing in the Shadows Devotional Series: Day 1 - When the Shadows Fall

Acknowledge the Darkness, But Don’t Forget the Light

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18 (NIV)

You don’t have to pretend it’s all okay.

Yes, you're saved.

Yes, you believe in God.

But that doesn’t mean the shadows never come.

Depression isn’t a faith failure—it’s a human experience. And sometimes, it's the faithful who feel it the deepest. The ache that won’t go away. The fog that won’t lift. The silence of God that feels louder than a crowd.

But Scripture never asks us to deny our pain—it invites us to bring it to God.

Psalm 34:18 doesn’t shame the brokenhearted. It says God is near them.

He draws close—not when you’re polished and perfect, but when you’re shattered and raw.

Today, you're invited to start where you are. Not where people think you should be. Not where you used to be. Right here. In the shadow.

Because healing begins with honesty. And your honesty is a holy place.

💭 Reflection Questions:

1. What are some “shadows” you’ve been walking through that you’ve tried to ignore or hide?

2. How does knowing that God is near to the brokenhearted shift your perspective today?

   
   

🙏 Prayer:

Lord, I confess the shadows feel heavy. Some days I’m exhausted, not just in body but in soul. Thank You for not requiring me to fake my joy or hide my pain. Thank You for drawing near when I feel furthest from You. Today, I don’t have all the words—but I’m here. And I believe You’re here too. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

🕊️ Journal Prompt:

Write a letter to God from your “shadowed” place. Don’t hold back. Let the pain out—but also ask Him to sit with you in it.