God Is Good And Does Good - Even In Our Highs & Lows

Life is full of ups and downs—and for someone like me who lives with bipolar disorder, those ups and downs can be especially intense. Last year, I experienced some of the deepest valleys I’ve ever known, struggling through a season of depression and anxiety. I couldn’t see a way forward, and each day felt heavy. By God’s grace, I gradually recovered from that episode and even found joy again in small, simple things. In those moments, I felt 90 percent back to my usual self, and I wrote this article to encourage others who might be in a similar place.

Today, however, I find myself in a different part of this journey. Recently, I entered what is known as a manic episode—a season where everything feels fast, bright, and unstoppable. It can feel like I’m full of energy and confidence, like I can do anything and fix everything at once. But in reality, I’ve learned that these feelings can be deceptive and even risky. I’ve been making impulsive decisions, not sleeping well, and saying things I don’t always think through. These actions may have hurt or confused some of you, and for that, I ask for your grace and prayers.

I’m reminded that even in these moments—whether low or high—God is good, and He does good. His grace does not depend on my emotional state. He is steady even when I am not. I’m so grateful for my family, who has stood by me in both the darkness and the brightness, and for you, my church family, for your prayers and love.

When I was struggling with depression, Philippians 4:6 comforted me:

“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”

It remains true today. My needs may look different in this current season, but God is still the One I must turn to—whether in stillness or restlessness.

Looking Back: Learning Through Depression

I want to leave the reflections below from my previous experience intact, not to boast in recovery, but to remind myself—and anyone reading—that God can carry us through all seasons. Perhaps one day I will re-read this again, from another place on the journey, and find fresh encouragement.

1. Stay in touch. Don’t withdraw.

When I was down, I isolated myself and feared everything—even swimming! But gentle encouragement from my family helped me break out of that cycle. Small outings, warm messages from friends, and the simple joy of a meal together reminded me I was not alone.

2. Be active in small ways.

Exercise helped renew my body and mind. Even small tasks like cooking became meaningful again. It reminded me that God gives strength little by little. He meets us where we are.

3. Face fears, let go, and trust God’s timing.

Letting go of old responsibilities was painful, but necessary. I’ve learned that stepping aside allows new, younger sisters to rise with new gifts and methods. It doesn’t mean I’m no longer useful—it means God is still working through the whole body, in different ways and seasons.

A Word for Now: Please Pray With Me

I’m sharing this update because I want to walk in the light and invite your prayers—not just when I’m unwell, but as a fellow sister navigating a lifelong condition. I still believe what I wrote before: that we must never give up, and that even when we fall, God is there to lift us up.

Right now, I’m leaning hard on Proverbs 3:5–6:

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Bipolar disorder is not easy. It affects how I think, feel, and relate. But it does not define who I am in Christ. I am still a beloved child of God. I may need more rest, more support, and more care right now, but I still believe in the One who never sleeps nor slumbers.

Please continue to pray with my family and me. And may we as a church continue to lift up one another—not only when we are strong, but also when we are struggling.

God is good, all the time—even in the highs and lows.