Introduction – Tell us a little about yourself.
Hello friend, I am Kristen Rupp. First and foremost, I am a follower of Christ. I am also a wife to Neil, and I stay at home with our two children (6 and 3). A few of my favorite things are reading, writing, walking, and being outdoors.
Share about a hard season you have walked in your life.
Over the last 3 years, I experienced periods of debilitating depression and anxiety. Intrusive thoughts bombarded my mind, making daily tasks difficult. About 1.5 years ago, I struggled with suicidal thoughts. As a Christian wife and young mom, it was difficult to reach out and ask for help, but I am grateful I did. I sought help from a Christian counselor and began taking medication. Today, I still struggle with negative, anxious, and sometimes suicidal thoughts, but I now have the medication and tools needed to fight this battle by the power of the Holy Spirit.
What did God show you during this season?
God showed me a deeper understanding for His compassion and grace. During this season, I spent time in Psalms and resonated with the raw emotions of the psalmist. Through His Word, God showed He compassionately hears every emotion, even deep depression and anxiety. Amidst suffering, I also experienced the depth of His grace. In a season where I could not do all I wanted, God reminded me there is nothing I do to receive His grace; all I must do is receive His gift.
How did God provide protective care during this season?
God provided His protective care during this season through the love of my husband, family, friends, counselor, and psychiatrist. This caring community showed God’s care through meals, prayer, scripture, arms to cry within, a listening ear, medication, and childcare. It is so beautiful how God provides care through His people!
What scripture(s) encouraged you during this season?
Psalm 139:14
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
I found comfort knowing I am fearfully and wonderfully made, even when I struggle with depression and anxiety.
Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
A beautiful psalm about God’s shepherding love through life’s darkness.
John 8:12 “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
This verse tells us Jesus illuminates our darkness, grabs our hand, and graciously leads us through the dark, one ray of light at a time.
What encouragement do you have for others that may be walking through this season?
If you are in a difficult season, I hope you find support in a trusted person. One of God’s greatest gifts is community. Secondly, I encourage you to find solace in God’s Word. If reading the Bible feels difficult, as it was for me, I recommend listening to scripture or scripture set to music. God’s Word buoyed me through my darkest days. Above all, please remember you are not alone; God is with you, and you are so dearly loved by Him.
Are there any books or resources that were helpful during this season?
One of my favorite resources is Charles Spurgeon’s, Encouragement for the Depressed. His words reminded me another Christian, even a pastor, struggled with depression. His words gave me hope. Another one of my favorites is Valley of Vision. These prayers helped me to stay focused on Christ, during difficult moments. I still find comfort in these today.
Connect with Kristen!
