Having a baby is a miracle in itself, but in my case the miracle was robbed of its joy. The labour was long and painful, yet my new baby boy was very healthy and perfect. Within a few hours I was feeling very low. Within a day or two I hit rock bottom. "Post-natal depression" was the name the doctors and nurses used.
Leaving the hospital, I was still feeling very down and anxious. After being home for ten weeks, things weren't improving. In fact, they got worse. My husband was confused and very worried. It wasn't the way he thought it would be.
I was re-admitted to the hospital. I saw a psychiatrist every morning, who quickly put me on anti-depressants. Sharp knives weren't allowed near me. My balcony windows were locked and I was watched very carefully. After five weeks there was no improvement. In fact, I wanted to put my little boy up for adoption. And I harboured bad thoughts about him.
Being part of a church praying for me was a wonderful support, but I never tried to pray, until one evening my husband made me attend a prayer night. Confused and not really wanting to be there, I took hold of myself and started to ask God to help. After a few minutes praying with my husband and friends, I felt my spirit lifting. I suddenly felt bold and strong. Joy had come upon me and it felt good.
I was so happy that I ran around the hall shouting out, "I'm healed! I'm healed!" It felt as if I had a cup on my head and God was filling it to overflowing with joy. I was really healed.
Mark, my husband, Harrison, my son, and I now live as a family in the comfort of God. When you give everything you have - your heart, your life, your future - to God, He gives back so much more. Including His joy! Nothing else can compare.
"I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord" Psalm 40:1-3.
Source: Janine and Mark Daly, Newcastle, Australia.
If you would like to meet the Jesus who changed Janine's life, click here.