#5 Dealing With Emotions - Depression In A Godly Way

SF, Stagecoach, NV

Dear Brothers & Sisters,

Topic #5 The Horrible Pit.

     Everyone experiences highs and lows.  But many people remain in a depressed state for long periods of time, such as; men returning from service and women after having babies.  A depressed person usually has a low self-image and makes life miserable for those around them. 

What have been some causes of depression in your life?

Share with others what has helped you in overcoming times of depression.

Are you learning to accept and like yourself (redo lesson #3 if necessary)?

Out of a Horrible Pit:

Let’s look at several Bible characters who experienced times of depression. List the person, cause of depression and their result below.

                                      Person        Cause of Depression:     Result:

Numbers 11:10-18:

1 Kings 19:1-8:

Jonah 4:1-11:

(Circle the one you identify with the most above.)

What was God’s solution for each man above?

Numbers 11:

1 Kings 19:

Jonah 4:

Summarize how these men handled their feelings of despair and discouragement.

Job; Job 13:15

David; Psalm 40:1-4, 42:1-6,8

Paul; Philippians 4:4-8, 13

Hope For The Depressed

     In lesson 2 on worry, we discussed the importance of controlling our minds and thoughts (Philippians 4:8).  This is especially necessary for a depressive person.  Our habits and mental reactions can become deeply ingrained, but Jesus can help reprogram our thoughts and minds.  Review if necessary.

     Realize you are in a spiritual battle and need protection from the twerps attacks.  Mediate on Christ and claim the power of His victory over death.  (See Revelation 12:11, Hebrews 2:14, Claim 1 John 4:4).

     Selfishness is a prime characteristic of a depressive person.  Thinking too much about yourself and your own problems (or for being too introspective) can feed your depression.

     Romans 12:3-8 encourages us to use our spiritual gifts for the Lord.  In versus 9-12, list other areas of service for the Christian:

Practical Steps To Help Experience Deliverance From Depression Include:

     Look for a possible physical cause such as; exhaustion or ill health first.  Confess all know sin, especially; self-pity and anger. Then ask to receive cleansing from God (1 John 1:9; Psalm 51:10).

     After confessing your sin, praise God for His victory (1 Thessalonians 5:18 and 1 John 5:14-15).

     Ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit and controlled by Him (Ephesians 5:18).  Saturate your mind daily with the Scripture and spend time praising God in order to prevent depression.

Application:

     How to Win over Depression, by Tim LaHaye, has an excellent chapter on helping your children avoid depression.  If you are a parent, be aware of positive ways to help your children.

     Ask the Lord for emotional healing if the cause of your depression is a result of suppressed anger or self-pity dating back to your childhood.

Prayer:

     Father, lift us from the depths of depression, as You have promised to do when we turn to You.  Help us not to fall into self-pity, but rather to be positive channels for your power. – In Jesus Name AMEN.

I’ll continue Wednesday 10/23/15 with “Topic #6 -Dealing With Guilt In A Godly Way”.

Blessings – The Lord’s Servant – Sandy F.