There are times when we all feel like giving up. We all get discouraged at one time or another. The trials of life weigh us down to the point of weariness and despair. It’s at this time depression sets in.

What we do not realize is that depression does not travel alone. It has traveling companions with luggage that can cost us our spiritual walk and our sanity if we do not recognize them for who they are. Along with depression come anger, jealousy, bitterness, anxiety, low self-esteem, and overall feeling of emptiness. They can all start with the spirit of depression.  

 

         I know that there some who say that there is no way this could happen to me. But let me assure you that none of us are exempt from the attacks of the enemy. A bad marriage, a divorce, sickness, the death of a loved one, loss of employment, receiving bad news, church hurt and loneliness can all bring on depression. Before you know it you find that you are not only depressed, you are angry. Then before you know it jealousy creeps in. And it goes on and on and on.

 

         I want you to know today that there is a way of escape. There is a way out. This trial that you are going through is only temporary. We serve a God who is faithful. Along with the trial that He has allowed us to go through, comes a passage of escape so that you are able to bear it. So just hang in there, Trust God to see you through. While you are in this dark place, cry out to God, believe his Word.

 

Realizing that the cares of life can put us in a state of depression, Jesus promised us in Matthew 6:25-34, not to worry about life’s situations and trials. He encourages us to seek the Kingdom of God first and His righteousness, then the things that we are worried about will be taken care of. (paraphrase) Allow the Spirit of the Lord to live in you. As difficult as it may me sometimes, always glorify God, giving Him thanks in all things, for this is His will concerning you in Christ Jesus.  (1 Thessalonians 5:18)  It is only for a moment.

 

         Pray, let this mind be in me that was also in Christ Jesus. King Solomon wrote in Proverbs 23:7 “ as a man thinks in his heart, so is he.”  I admonish you to think on the positive, the things that are “true, honest, just, pure, and that are lovely”. (Philippians 4:8) The Apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians not to worry about anything, … “but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”(KJV)

       

        If you find you are in this situation too long, don’t be ashamed to ask for help. A pastor, trusted friend, a secular counselor if need be. However, not everyone will understand this place that you are in. You can’t share with everyone. Seek God for direction. He will lead you to a counselor, to a friend, to a confidant, someone who will pray with you, someone who will listen to you. Oft times we don’t need advice, just someone to hear us out. In seeking God, he will direct you to such a person.

 

        Being depressed is not a sin. The trailors that attach themselves to the state of depression, can lead to a sinful state due to the mindset that you are in. If we stay in that downtrodden state too long, it will deprive us of the more abundant life that Jesus promised us. Stand on the word of God and His promises and watch him deliver you. As the word from God to King Hezekiah in 2 Kings 20:5 , “I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will heal you.”

 

        Our God is not a God who lies. He said it, He will perform it. Strive to delight yourself in Him, and He will give you the desires of your heart. The peace, the joy, the love, they are all yours. Believe it.

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                                                                                                                        Dr. J. G. Johnson

                                                                                                                        Issues of Life Conquered