" DEPRESSION "

Good Day To You!

It's my prayer that all is well and right in your world. There is much hurting and despair in the lives of so many today that those of us who know the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior must stay in prayer. This week we will be touching on the subject of " DEPRESSION. "

Depression is one of the most common emotional ailments. Now one antidote for depression is to meditate on the record of God's goodness to His people. This will take your mind off the present situation and give hope that it will improve. It will focus your thoughts on God's ability to help yourself.

When you feel depressed, take advantage of this Psalm's antidepressant (Psalm 42:5-6). Read the Bible's accounts of God's goodness, and mediate on them. Look up these verses, as they speak on depression:

• Isaiah 61:1,3
• 1 John 4:4
• Proverbs 42:11
• Matthew 28:18
• Isaiah 26:3
• Philippians 4:8
•  Isaiah 40:29
• Isaiah 53:4,5
• Nehemiah 8:10
• John 14:27

 Depression often follows great achievements. Example in the Word, God tells of Samson's triumph. After a great feat Samson was physically and emotionally exhausted. Now after his great personal victory, his attitude declined quickly into self-pity, " Shall I die of thirst?" Emotionally we are most vulnerable after a great effort or when faced with real physical needs. Severe depression often follows great achievements, so don't be surprised if you feel drained after a personal victory. During these times of vulnerability, avoid the temptation to think that God owes you for your efforts. It was His strength that gave him victory. Concentrate on keeping your attitudes, actions, and words focused on God instead of yourself.

Elijah experienced the depths of fatigue and discouragement just after his two great spiritual victories: the defeat of the prophets of Baal and the answered prayer for rain. Often discouragement sets in after great spiritual experiences, especially those requiring physical effort or involving great emotion. To lead him out of depression God first let Elijah rest and eat. Then God confronted him with the need to return to his mission - to speak God's Word in Israel. Elijah's battles were not over; there was still work for him to do.

When you feel let down after a great spiritual experience, remember that God's purpose for your life is not yet over. You don't have to be alone when you're going through a bout of depression. Always remember that Jesus never fails.

 Trust God in all things and in all ways.

Until Next Time...
Jim