This is my story from beginning to eternity. “Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty (John 6:35).’”

Hi friend, I’m Joleen. I’m a christian, I’m imperfect, and I need Jesus like no one’s business! I have three adult children and one teenager (yikes!), along with a fiance whom I love so very much. We have several animals on the property that keep us busy every single day, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. They’re like family to us and they help to boost my mood. I love gardening and doing arts and crafts in my free time. Both hobbies are therapeutic, much like my family and pups.

Are you ready to hear about my depression? I’m so glad you are because I love sharing my story with people. I started having depression when I was in my late 20’s and it progressed as I got a bit older. After a suicide attempt, I sought medical help and hated the medication I was given, that’s when a friend of mine took me to his church. I wasn’t really sure about my belief system because I was raised in a church that never taught the value of having a personal relationship with the LORD. As a matter of fact, I had never read the Bible and never really paid attention in church because it seemed like something that was only meant for adults. I wish I had known sooner how different my life could be if I had simply had faith.

The day that my friend took me to church is the day I received new life and a new relationship with my Savior. There were so many things that had happened in my life leading up to that day, but we’ll get into the details as I post more for you to read over the coming weeks. I want you to know that your circumstances do not define you. Your sadness, your grief, your depression is not what God created you to be and that means something really huge because what you were created to be is so grand and beautiful!

“So God created man in his own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” (Genesis 1:26–27). If we study the characteristics of God, we’ll see that He’s the epitome of love and peace, and He created us just like Him! That’s our hope, friend! There is nothing in this whole world that can separate us from His promises and His ultimate plan for us. Will Satan try to separate us from our Father? Yes. But we have hope and a Savior who will beat the pants off of Satan for even trying.

One of the commandments of God is to “be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be known to God; and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7). Seems difficult, doesn’t it? Especially when the sky no longer looks blue and the trees don’t look green anymore. But it’s possible. One thing I know for sure is, if I remain fervently in prayer, God is gracious and gives me peace. It’s the kind of peace that calms you and lets you know that He is with you. God promises never to leave us or forsake us, and that is so valuable, friend.

Throughout our time together, I’ll teach you what I know about remaining in prayer and listening for God’s still, small voice. My prayer is that you find the LORD’s peace as we walk this path together with Jesus, so I hope you’ll stay tuned for more posts about my journey, and listen to insights on how to overcome the depression you might have. If today you feel down and dreary, remember to whom you belong. You are loved so much, friend. See you soon!