Healing in the Shadows Devotional Series: Day 4 - The Silent Cry

Focus Scripture:

Isaiah 61:3 (NLT) – “To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair.”

Devotional Thought:

You made it through the storm. You’re functioning again. You’re doing the things—showing up, serving, speaking life—but something still doesn’t feel right. This is where residual depression creeps in. It’s like the echo of what you survived. You’re not in the deep anymore… but you’re not standing on dry land either. Residual depression doesn’t mean you’re ungrateful, unhealed, or unfaithful. It means the wound has closed—but the scar still aches when touched. The enemy will whisper, “You should be over this by now.” But God gently says, “I’m not finished healing you yet. ”Isaiah 61:3 reminds us that He exchanges ashes for beauty, mourning for joy, despair for praise. It’s an exchange, not an instant replacement. And sometimes the process is slow—layer by layer, moment by moment. If you’re still feeling the fog, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means you’re still healing. And healing is still holy.

Reflection Questions:

1. In what ways have you felt the lingering weight of residual depression?

2. Have you judged yourself for not feeling “all the way better”?

3. How can you let God into the unfinished parts of your healing?

Prayer:

God, I thank You for bringing me through the hardest part. But I’m honest enough to admit—I still feel heavy. I still have foggy days. I still get triggered by old wounds. Help me not to shame myself for what You’re still healing. Remind me that You work in layers. That beauty rises slowly from ashes. And that I’m allowed to still be in process. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Today’s Action Step:

Make a “healing inventory.” List what God has already healed in your life. Then, write down what still needs attention. Don’t rush to fix it. Just invite Him into the list—and thank Him for working in every item.