Book 2 Depression

8/10/2019 Book 2 Depression

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Upstate CounselingMini-Series

Book 2

Depression

Natalie Davis


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Copyright 2012 Natalie Davis

All rights reserved.


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DEDICATION

This book is dedicated to all those who suffer from depression and arenow overcomers.


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CONTENTS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS i

1 DEALING WITH DEPRESSION 3

2 WHAT THE BIBLE HAS TO SAY ABOUT DEPRESSION 5

3 IS IT DEPRESSION OR ONLY THE BLUES? 11

4 GODLY PEOPLE CAN ALSO SUFFER FROM DEPRESSION 14

5 OVERCOMING DEPRESSION IN A DEPRESSING WORLD 16

6 BIBLICAL ANSWERS FOR DEPRESSION 20

7 SEVEN STEPS FOR OVERCOMING DEPRESSION 23

8 FROM DEPRESSION TO PRAISE 24

9 SCRIPTURE EXERCISE 26


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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I would like to acknowledge my children Leah, Gabriel and Jonathanwho stood as my rock during the most depressing times in my life.


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1 DEALING WITH DEPRESSION

The Bible shows that humanity has suffered from discouragement anddepression since the beginning. Depression can affect all people, smalland great. Many Bible heroes, such as David, Moses, Job and Elijah,dealt with it. What can we learn from their examples and biblical

principles?

Consider the Old Testament prophet Elijah.

Elijah had a close relationship with God and was used powerfully byHim. Many people witnessed the greatness of God through theprophet.

Elijah encouraged many people. He helped a widow and her son whowere down-and-out and had only enough food for one more meal.Elijah told the widow that God would provide, and He did. Later, whenher son died, Elijah asked God to bring him back to life, and God did.This widow's hope was restored through Elijah.

Elijah did many other amazing works by the power of God, but theBible shows that even great men of God can get tripped up by thetrials and challenges of living God's way in a world under the sway ofSatan. The story of Elijah's descent into depression is a classic.

Not only was Elijah hated and threatened with death by the evil QueenJezebel, he also felt his work had been in vain and that no one elsewas supporting God. He felt totally alone, vulnerable and hopeless.Being human like you and me, all this started to get to him.


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Elijah got overwhelmed and wanted to quit. No one knew Elijah wasdepressed. But God did.

God approached Elijah, and Elijah told God that he had been doing hisbest, but it was all for nothing. Elijah told God he was tired and justwanted to quit and die!

God then did something surprising. First He put on a display of Hispower. But immediately afterward, He comforted Elijah by talking withhim in a gentle whisper. God also quietly told Elijah that He had morework for him to do and let him know he wasn't alone. God showedElijah He was more than just a mighty God of power. He was also acompassionate God that cared. Elijah's hope was restored (1 Kings19:1-18).


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2 WHAT THE BIBLE HAS TO SAY ABOUTDEPRESSION

Perhaps you are tired too. Does it seem like you're doing your best,only to have one crisis after another come upon you? Do you feel likethe world is crashing in on you, and there's nothing you can do aboutit? Do you want to just give up?

God's Word has plenty to say about discouragement and depressionand how to deal with both.

We should also recognize that more severe forms of depression canlead to or be caused by certain physical and psychological disorders. Iwould encourage anyone suffering from severe depression to seek theguidance of a trained counselor or mental health professional inaddition to applying the biblical tools.

Let's look at some relevant scriptures so we can learn what we can doto help overcome depression and its negative effects.

What is a root cause of depression?

Proverbs 13:12Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when the desire comes, it is atree of life.

Proverbs 18:14 (New Living Translation)The human spirit can endure a sick body, but who can bear it if thespirit is crushed?

Job 7:6, 11"My days are swifter than a weaver's shuttle, and are spent withouthope...


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"Therefore I will not restrain my mouth; I will speak in the anguish ofmy spirit; I will complain in the bitterness of my soul."

We become depressed when we lose hope. When we see no end in

sight to our problems, thoughts of just giving up will surface.

Who takes advantage of this moment of weakness?

Ephesians 6:11-12Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand againstthe wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood,but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of thedarkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in theheavenly places.

2 Corinthians 2:7, 11So that, on the contrary, you ought rather to forgive and comfort him,lest perhaps such a one be swallowed up with too much sorrow...

Lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of hisdevices.

Satan and his demons want you and me to fail. They want us to giveup. So when we are discouraged, Satan will make sure he broadcastshis evil thoughts and ways toward us. We must guard our thoughts, orour minds will pick up on his wavelength, and we will become evenmore discouraged (1 Peter 5:6-9).

Where is the first place you should go when you are depressed?

Matthew 11:28-30"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will giveyou rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentleand lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke iseasy and My burden is light."

Psalm 61:1-4Hear my cry, O God; attend to my prayer. From the end of the earth I

will cry to You, when my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the rockthat is higher than I. For You have been a shelter for me, a strongtower from the enemy. I will abide in Your tabernacle forever; I willtrust in the shelter of Your wings.


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Philippians 4:6-7Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication,with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and thepeace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your

hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Our human nature doesn't want us to acknowledge we need help, butGod tells us to go to Him when we are discouraged. Even thoughSatan tries to broadcast his evil thoughts to us, God can protect usand give us an amazing and powerful peace of mind. Just as Godstrengthened Elijah's hope, He can strengthen ours as well (Psalm31:24).

Where else should you turn when you are discouraged?

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for theirlabor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to himwho is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up. Again, iftwo lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warmalone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two canwithstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Proverbs 27:10 (New Living Translation)Never abandon a friend either yours or your father's. Then in yourtime of need, you won't have to ask your relatives for assistance. It isbetter to go to a neighbor than to a relative who lives far away.

Turning inward is not the way to deal with depression. We need to bewith our friends so they can encourage and help us. As we readearlier, Satan is compared to a roaring lion. A lion attacks one that isweak and separated from the herd. Being with friends and family willbuild us up, protect us and help us stay strong.

What else does the Bible say you can do to help overcomedepression?

Proverbs 17:22A merry heart does good, like medicine, but a broken spirit dries thebones.

Philippians 4:8Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble,whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever thingsare lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtueand if there is anything praiseworthy meditate on these things.


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Joyfulness and cheerfulness are a type of medicine for our minds andbodies. It's good for us to smile and laugh! So when we arediscouraged, we need to do something that cheers us up. Helpingothers also brings us a "merry heart."

Meditating on good things is also healthy for our minds, because ithelps replace Satan's negative broadcasts with good thoughts. ThePsalms remind us that meditating on God's law brings great peace(Psalm 119:97, 165).

How can a perfect God relate to the discouragement weexperience as humans?

Hebrews 4:15-16For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with ourweaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin.Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we mayobtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Hebrews 12:2-3Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the

joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame,and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For considerHim who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest youbecome weary and discouraged in your souls.

Isaiah 53:3-4He is despised and rejected by men, a Man of sorrows and acquaintedwith grief. And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him; He wasdespised, and we did not esteem Him. Surely He has borne our griefsand carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed Him stricken, smitten byGod, and afflicted.

Jesus Christ gave up His spirit glory to live and die as a human. Heexperienced the same emotions and turmoil you and I face. He candefinitely relate when we are depressed. The night before Jesus wascrucified, He was overwhelmed with what was about to happen to Him.He pleaded with the Father for another way. The Father comforted Himby sending an angel to strengthen Him (Matthew 26:38-44; Luke22:41-44).


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When depression is caused by our past mistakes, what doesGod promise to do?

Psalm 32:1-5

Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.Blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not impute iniquity, and inwhose spirit there is no deceit. When I kept silent, my bones grew oldthrough my groaning all the day long. For day and night Your handwas heavy upon me; my vitality was turned into the drought ofsummer. Selah [a transliterated Hebrew word used as a poetic refrain]I acknowledged my sin to You, and my iniquity I have not hidden. Isaid, "I will confess my transgressions to the Lord," and You forgavethe iniquity of my sin. Selah

Psalm 51:1-3, 7-10Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Your lovingkindness;according to the multitude of Your tender mercies, blot out mytransgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse mefrom my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions, and my sin isalways before me...Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be

whiter than snow. Make me hear joy and gladness, that the bones Youhave broken may rejoice. Hide Your face from my sins, and blot out allmy iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew asteadfast spirit within me.

A guilty conscience can lead one into deep depression. God tells us toconfess our sin to Him, and He will forgive us. True repentanceincludes turning from sin, which means we must try not to commit thesin again. Even though God will forgive the sin, we still may have todeal with the consequences of our mistakes. But again, God will bethere to help us (Isaiah 41:10).

If you are presently overwhelmed because of financial, healthor other serious situations, what does God want you to do?

Luke 11:9-10"So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you willfind; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asksreceives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be

opened."

Psalm 27:13-14I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see thegoodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord; be of


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good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on theLord!

God wants us to tell Him our needs, yet at the same time be thankful

for the good things we do have (recall Philippians 4:6-7). God expectsus to do what we can to help our situation while also patiently waitingon Him to help us. God promises He will never forsake those who obeyHim (Hebrews 13:5-6).

Finally, what does God want your mind-set to be when you arein a difficult trial?

James 1:2-4

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowingthat the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience haveits perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lackingnothing.

1 Corinthians 10:13No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man;but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond whatyou are able, but with the temptation will also make the way ofescape, that you may be able to bear it.

Philippians 4:11-13Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whateverstate I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know howto abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be fulland to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do allthings through Christ who strengthens me.

1 Peter 5:10

But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory byChrist Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish,strengthen, and settle you.

God wants us to think positively when we are in a trial. Hard times canmake us better. Instead of dwelling on the negative, we should lookfor the good that will come from the trial. God promises that He willnot allow us to be in a situation we can't handle if we obey Him. Andalthough trials may last a while, He encourages us to be content andpatient, knowing He will see us through this difficult time. Jesus saidthat when we put God first, we have no need to worry (Matthew 6:25-34).


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3 IS IT DEPRESSION OR ONLY THE BLUES?

Sometimes we're sad. Oftentimes when we're less than buoyant wesay we're "depressed." But real depression clinical depression ismore than just being sad or not quite buoyant.

Sometimes we're sad. Oftentimes when we're less than buoyant wesay we're "depressed." But real depression clinical depression ismore than just being sad or not quite buoyant. It involves severesymptoms and biochemical changes.

Many minor episodes of depression are the result of disappointment.Hopes may fail to materialize, and frustration results. The writer of one

of the books of the Bible realized this: "Hope deferred makes the heartsick ..." (Proverbs 13:12).

When hope is dashed, discouragement can grow. When this happens,it helps to think the situation through and pinpoint the cause. This canrestore a positive perspective.

Some people's marginally "blue" feelings become a way of life. Suchpeople seem unable to sustain an optimistic outlook. The roots of suchfeelings can run deep. Such a person may be modeling behavior hesaw as a child in someone else.

Habitual harshness by parents can drive a child toward perpetualgloominess. The apostle Paul advises parents: "... Do not provoke yourchildren, lest they become discouraged" (Colossians 3:21).


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An expert on depression, Peter Breggin, observes: "Many people gothrough life with what might be called a 'low-grade' depression. Theyare apathetic and life seems monotonous with nothing to look forwardto. There are no highs anymore, nothing to delight the senses, theheart, or the mind. Life may not seem utterly dark, but it's gray.Lacking in energy, seemingly unable to find any brightness in life, lifebecomes a treadmill of boredom and bleakness" ( Talking Back toProzac, St. Martin's Press, New York, 1994, p. 201).

Here are some ways to overcome the blues:

Alter your routine. Start a new hobby or other interest. Differentactivities can renew a zest for life, resulting in an outlook that leavesno room for dejection. "Depression is especially responsive to changesin circumstances ... [It] is lifted by falling in love, making a new friend,adopting a pet, learning a new skill, joining a church, traveling, [or]participating in volunteer or reform work ..." (Breggin, p. 204).

Volunteer work seems to be particularly helpful. A study of 3,000people reported that 95 percent of them experienced increasedoptimism after volunteering.

Beginning a program of regular physical exercise can help. Exercise

has known physiological and psychological benefits, includingstimulation of the production of endorphins, natural substances thatincrease people's sense of well-being. Psychological advantagesinclude increased self-confidence and less depression (Edmund J.Bourne, Ph.D., The Anxiety & Phobia Workbook, New HarbingerPublications, Oakland, 1995, pp. 91-92).

Research shows that diet plays a role in psychological well-being. Forexample, highly refined, high-sugar foods have been linked todepressive tendencies.


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4 GODLY PEOPLE CAN ALSO SUFFER FROMDEPRESSION

Some have imagined that depression is always the result of some sin,of a moral weakness. Although sin can cause depression, it is not truethat sin is behind all bouts of depression.

Some have imagined that depression is always the result of some sin,of a moral weakness. Although sin can cause depression, it is not truethat sin is behind all bouts of depression.

The Bible describes the struggles of people who suffered withdepression including David, Elijah and Job even though they werefaithful servants of God. These men did not suffer primarily becausethey were sinners. They suffered because they were human and weresusceptible to severe pressures.

Job became depressed after suffering many personal losses first hismaterial possessions, then all his children. Then he was devastated bya grievous physical affliction: He broke out in painful boils.

Elijah grew depressed when he was rebuked while he was anticipatinga moment of triumph. His lofty hopes were crushed; he became sick atheart.

The depressions of David, as related in some of the Psalms, stem fromany of several probable causes.

These men recovered and went on with their lives, serving God.

No one should condemn someone because he is depressed. Thesufferer often already feels self-revulsion. He blames himself andperhaps thinks he has sinned. He may submit himself to torturousrecriminations and dredge up all the evil he has done in his life, real orimagined. Because of their high standards, Christians can especially bevulnerable to this thinking.


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Passing judgment on someone who is already depressed will only addto his sorrow. When Elijah became fearful and depressed, he fled fromhis God-given responsibilities. Yet God didn't berate Elijah. He spoke tohim in a "still small voice" and encouraged him (1 Kings 19:1-18).

Anyone who is depressed needs encouragement. "A friend oweskindness to one in despair ..." (Job 6:14, New American Bible). Don'tforget that the family of a depressed person needs support andencouragement too.

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Hebrews 4:15 encourages us, "For we do not have a High Priestwho cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all pointstempted as we are, yet without sin." He wants to help us with ourstruggles and rejoice in our successes.

2. Feel your feelings.

Ecclesiastes 7:3 says, "Sorrow is better than laughter, for by a sadcountenance the heart is made better." You are probably thinking,"How can that be?" I know our society tells us things like, "boys don'tcry," "be tough" and "don't let them see you sweat."

It is OK to cry and feel sorrow or discouragement. When we bottleup our emotions and stuff them deep within our hollow spaces,

refusing to deal with them, we set ourselves up for physical andemotional health problems. Many adolescents lack understanding ofhow to deal with the anger, hurt and resentment that plague theirinsides. Afraid of emotions, some learn destructive coping mechanismssuch as drugs and alcohol that hurt others as well as themselves.

Making amends can be a humbling process, but it's a necessarystep to get on track for a healthier life. Ephesians 4:26 advises us notto let the sun go down before we have dealt with a matter that hasupset us.

3. Look to the Psalms.

Do you know people who seem to "have it all"? They are popular,good looking and witty. Appearing "calm, cool and collected," theirconfident air can intimidate us. As one of the most respected andinfluential men of his time, King David must have impacted thosearound him in much the same way. Even God referred to him as a manafter His own heart! In Psalm 55:17

David states, "Evening and morning and noon I will pray, and cryaloud, and He shall hear my voice."

No matter in what circumstances David found himself, hecontinually trusted in God's deliverance. However, the book of Psalmsallows us to penetrate into the "aching hollow spaces" of David's heart.Although invisible to the average man of his day, David's inner core isintimately expressed in the Psalms. He was not uncomfortableexpressing his deepest emotions to his Heavenly Father, even when hefelt completely cut off from God.


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When we feel this way, perhaps we have neglected our ownspiritual life, and the physical has become more important. On theother hand, we could be doing all the right things and still experience

depression. These times are seasons of growth we all must go throughin our Christian walk.

4. Focus on the positive.

Even when we are struggling with depression, we can be in an"attitude of gratitude." Take time to praise God for positive things.Keep a gratitude journal and write down what God has given you. Itmay be as simple as "I am alive today! I have food to eat. I have aroof over my head." I know this may sound trite, but there are many

in this world who don't have basic needs we can take for granted.Count your blessings! When we start to focus on the positive, the trialsdon't seem to be as overwhelming. A walk in the park or a bicycle ridecan get the heart pumping and help us see things from a freshperspective.

Another positive focus during our dark times should be the futurethat awaits us; visualize your life in the Kingdom of God. Focus onGod, His plan and His purpose. Paul gives us excellent advice inPhilippians 4:8, "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever

things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure,whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, ifthere is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy meditate onthese things."

5. Talk to someone.

God is our #1 counselor. People are His resources and can help,too. Many older men and women have experienced disappointment.Ask how they are overcoming their challenges. Choose someone withwhom you can be honest. Parents may be a good choice. However,you are not limited. God has provided the Church as our spiritualfamily.

There are many benefits to having a trusted friend. Proverbs 27:17tells us, "As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the

countenance of his friend." God did not intend for us to be an islandfloating disconnected on a raging sea. He has provided others to helpus grow and mature.

6. Do something nice for someone else.

One important principle dealing with depression is that reaching outto someone in need changes our focus. Send cards to shut-ins, orothers who are in emotional or physical pain. Take time to do an


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errand for an elderly neighbor. Call a friend and inquire about his orher day. Take small steps to come out of yourself. These acts ofselflessness may just snap you out of the doldrums and help you gaina more positive focus.

7. Remember: this too shall pass.

Nothing lasts forever. Life ebbs and flows. The next time you arefeeling down or discouraged, remember there is a silver lining. Try notto take yourself and the rough spots so seriously. Ecclesiastes 3:1

reminds us, "To everything there is a season, a time for everypurpose under heaven."

We are supposed to experience not only joy and success in this life,

but trials and dark times as well. When you are in one of those sunkenplaces, don't forget joy is one of the fruits of God's Spirit, and ask Godto fill that hollow space.

These are just a few suggestions to help us when we struggle withdepression. This life is a training ground for the bigger vision God hasin store for us. Revelation 21:4

tells us that a future time is coming when the "aching hollowspaces" will disappear forever. "And God will wipe away every tearfrom their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying.

There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away."

We have an awesome future in store for us! The trials we have nowGod says cannot compare to this glorious time.


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6 BIBLICAL ANSWERS FOR DEPRESSION

As we search the Bible, the most detailed model of depression (andmaybe burnout) in the Bible is included in the life of Elijah. It is alsopossible that he was suffering from bipolar disorder since he seemedto have a very elevated mood and energy level shortly beforebecoming depressed. Our story begins in 1st Kings Chapters 18-19.

1. Depression many times follows periods of greataccomplishment, failure, loss, or expenditure of energy. Elijah(Jehovah is God) was a prophet of God during the reign of Ahab andJezebel. Jezebel (Baal exalts, Baal is my husband, unchaste) killed theprophets of God and promoted the fertility god, Baal. After a three-year famine, Elijah confronted Ahab and the prophets of Baal andproved to the people that Jehovah was God, by bringing down firefrom heaven that consumed the sacrifice, stones, and even the wateraround the altar. He then killed 400 prophets of Baal, prayed for rain(which resulted in a deluge), and out-raced Ahab's chariot back toJezreel. Elijahs high energy level in facing all of Israel and then out -racing Ahabs chariot could be explained either as Gods supernaturalenablement or as the manic phase of a bipolar disorder.

2. When depression suddenly appears, it is important todetermine what occurred or changed about that same time. WhenAhab told Jezebel what had happened, she sent a message threateningElijahs life. He so feared Jezebel, that he ran for his life to Beersheba(the edge of Israel). Beersheba means well of oath or well of seven.Possibly this indicates that Elijah was struggling with the oath he tookto serve God or that he was looking for Gods complete provision (thisis the meaning of the number seven).

3. Depression is like living in a dried up wilderness,without water and food, and wanting to die. Elijah took a day's

journey into the wilderness and sat under a juniper tree. Wilson'sDictionary of Bible Types suggests that this type of dry bushrepresents, "a defeated spirit, a disappointed life, and a depressedsoul." (p. 273) Depression made Elijah feel like dying. Today,depression is strongly correlated with suicidal intent.

4. Depression, as well as our other emotions, are usuallydetermined by how we look at the events in our lives. 1st Kings 19:3states, "And when he saw [that], he arose, and went for his life..." Itwas the way he "saw" what happened that motivated him to run forhis life. It is important to investiga te the depressed individuals


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perception of the events just prior to the depression. Theseperceptions are usually one of the most important issues to be dealtwith in therapy. It is also possible that the client is turning angerinward, which is causing the depression. In verse 4, Elijah clearly

states how he sees things: "It is enough; now, O LORD, take away mylife; for I [am] not better than my fathers." He had hoped that thegreat miracle of bringing down fire from heaven would turn the nationto God. All it accomplished was to have the queen seek his life. In hiseyes, he had failed!

5. When the body is physically depleted, it is difficult tosee life clearly. While Elijah slept an angel prepared a cake baked oncoals for him to eat and gave him a container of water to drink.Sometimes taking care of physical needs is all that is required to snap

out of depression. At least, caring for the clients physical needs willhelp him to rationally evaluate his perceptions. Symbolically, thisverse also suggests the need to be filled again with Gods Word andHis Spirit.

6. The depressed person needs to exercise and thenreevaluate his view of his life. After sleeping and eating again, Elijahtraveled 40 (testing of human life) days and nights to Mount Horeb,the sight of most of God's Old Testament revelations to humanity.Studies have indicated that exercise can be as effective as medication

in reducing depression. Elijah needed a new way of looking at hissituation in the middle of his testing.

7. In their misery and circumstances, depressedindividuals must be challenged to reevaluate their situation from Godspoint of view. God asked Elijah how he got himself in this situation,because the perceptions of the depressed person are many times thecause of the depression. Since emotions are controlled by how theperson perceives a situation, if he sees the situation as God sees it; hewill be set free.

8. The depressed person is locked into his way of lookingat life and feels alone. When questioned, Elijah repeats his litany, "Ihave been very jealous for the LORD God of hosts: for the children ofIsrael have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slainthy prophets with the sword; and I, [even] I only, am left; and theyseek my life, to take it away." (1 Kings 19:14)

9. They need to be brought to the realization that God isnot limited by, nor operates through man's circumstances or methods.There was a great wind on the mountain, then an earthquake, andfinally a fire; but God was not in any of these. We expect God toaccomplish His will in spectacular ways, but He usually chooses tooperate behind the scenes in almost undetectable ways. In this case,God spoke in a still, small voice.


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7 STEPS FOR OVERCOMING DEPRESSION

1. Depression many times follows periods of accomplishment,

stress, failure, or loss. It may also be caused by anger turned inward.

2. All emotions, including depression, are determined by how the

client perceives the events of his life. If past events are strongly

involved, a healing of emotions may be required in order to deal withpresent circumstances.

3. The first step to recovery is to get adequate sleep,

nourishment, and exerecise. If this is not possible, medication may be

temporarily required. The client must also rebuild his spiritual life.

4. The depressed person must be challenged to reevaluate his

view of his circumstances from Gods point of view.

5. The client must rekindle his faith and hope in Gods ability to

work everything for good. He must learn to thank God that He will use

even these circumstances for the clients good.

6. He must realize that God loves him and is not limited by the

methods or the circumstances of his life.

7. The client must obtain a new vision for his life from God and take

action to fulfill it.


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8 FROM DEPRESSION TO PRAISE

We should recognize that there are many contributing factors todepression: physical disease, over work, emotional trauma, lack ofsleep, too much sugar in the diet, lack of proper exercise, impropernutrition, lack of exposure to sunlight, use of alcohol, and even the useof many antidepressants. Some additional spiritual factors are: sin,guilt, doubt, demonic influence, worry, anxiety, and fear. However,there is one overriding factor. Solomon wrote, "For as he thinketh inhis heart, so is he" (Proverbs 23:7a). What we think determines, to alarge degree, how we feel. What we think effects both chemicalchange in our bodies and the emotions we feel.

David addresses the issue of depression when he wrote, "Why artthou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me?hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of mycountenance, and my God" (Psalm 42:11) (see also Psalm 42:5,43:5). Everyone has opportunity to become depressed. This morningas I am writing this article, I am sick in bed with a rather painfulheadache from a sinus infection. I would much rather be in the Sundaymorning service of our church worshipping the Lord with the body ofChrist. However, with the situation being as is, I decided to takeadvantage of the time to rest and write. I first began to learn to praiseGod about twenty years ago while I was sick in bed with the flu. I hadmy wife to purchase two books on praise, then I used the time to readthe books, study the Word on praise, and to begin to praise Him. Weshould understand that every situation is an opportunity to praise God.

David did not deny depression by saying, "I am not depressed."Neither did he give in to it. He made a decision to do something aboutit. He began with self-talk. He said, "Soul, you hope in God who is thehealth of my mental and emotional state. He is my God." The Hebrewword that is translated "hope" means "to wait". We are not to give uphope, but we are to wait, even enduring pain, trusting that God willwork all things together for our good. While waiting, we are tocontinue to praise God.

Jonah, the prophet of God, had disobeyed God. He had been in a

terrible storm at sea, had been thrown overboard by the ship's crew,had been swallowed by a giant fish, and had been there in thestomach of the fish for three days with seaweed wrapped about hishead. This was certainly an opportunity for being depressed! However,he began to pray and praise God. He said, "But I will sacrifice unto


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thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay that that I have vowed.Salvation is of the LORD" (Jonah 2:9).

Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah, was surrounded by the armies of

three of his enemies. His army was far outnumbered by the armies ofhis enemies. Surely this was an opportunity to give in to hopelessness.What did he do? He sent the singers out before his army to sing and topraise the LORD (II Chronicles 20:20-22).

We find another example in the book of Acts. Paul and Silas had beenseverely beaten and had been put in prison with their feet in stocks, allfor preaching the gospel. Here was a real opportunity to believe thatGod had deserted them and become depressed. However, "And atmidnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises to God: and the

prisoners heard them" (Acts 16:26).

No matter what situation we find ourselves in, we can know whatGod's will is for us. "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will ofGod in Christ Jesus concerning you" (I Thessalonians 5:18). We canpraise God knowing that He is working all things for our good and Hisglory (Romans 8:28). Paul exhorts us by saying "Giving thanks alwaysfor all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord JesusChrist" (Ephesians 5:20). Again he writes, "Rejoice in the Lord alway;and again I say, Rejoice" (Philippians 4:4). David declared, "Seven

times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments"(Psalm 119:164). We take coffee breaks, rest breaks, and lunchbreaks. Why not take praise breaks!

God's answer for depression is praise! He tells us to put on "thegarment of praise for the spirit of heaviness" (Isaiah 61:3). Praise isthe one antidepressant (medicine) that we all need. "A merry heartdoeth good like a medicine" (Proverbs 17:22).


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9 SCRIPTURE EXERCISE

The following exercise is designed to help you to remember to praise:

1. Print out this exercise.2. Choose three verses to work on each week and write them on 3 x 5cards.3. Read each of the three verses aloud 5x in the morning and 5x in theevening.4. Do this for seven days.5. Confess the verses of praise when you are tempted to be depressed.Joshua 1:8 = "This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; butthou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to doaccording to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way

prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success."

Philippians 4:4 = "Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice."

Philippians 4:6 = "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer

and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made knownunto God."

Colossians 3:16 = "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in allwisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymnsand spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord."

I Thessalonians 5:18 = "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will ofGod in Christ Jesus concerning you."

Psalms 43:5 = "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thoudisquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is thehealth of my countenance, and my God."

Nehemiah 13:2 = "Because they met not the children of Israel with breadand with water, but hired Balaam against them, that he should cursethem: howbeit our God turned the curse into a blessing."

Hebrews 13:15 = "By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise toGod continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name."

Psalms 149:9 = "To execute upon them the judgment written: this honour


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have all his saints. Praise ye the LORD."

Genesis 50:20 = "But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but Godmeant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much peoplealive."

Psalms 67:5-7 = "Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee. Then shall the earth yield her increase; and God, even ourown God, shall bless us. God shall bless us; and all the ends of the earthshall fear him."

Psalms 92:1 = "It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to

sing praises unto thy name, O most High:"

Psalms 146:1-2 = "Praise ye the LORD. Praise the LORD, O my soul.While I live will I praise the LORD: I will sing praises unto my Godwhile I have any being."

Psalms 148:5 = "Let them praise the name of the LORD: for hecommanded, and they were created."

Philippians 3:1 = "Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write thesame things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe."

James 1:2-3 = "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into diverstemptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh

patience."

Psalms 50:23 = "Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that

ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God."

I Kings 8:56 = "Blessed be the LORD, that hath given rest unto his people Israel, according to all that he promised: there hath not failed oneword of all his good promise, which he promised by the hand of Moseshis servant."

II Chronicles 20:21 = "And when he had consulted with the people, heappointed singers unto the LORD, and that should praise the beauty ofholiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the LORD;for his mercy endureth for ever."


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Ephesians 5:19-20 = "Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns andspiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the nameof our Lord Jesus Christ;"

Psalms 84:11 = "For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD willgive grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them thatwalk uprightly."

Revelation 4:11 = "Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour

and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they areand were created."


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10SEEING THE SUPERNATURAL IN THE NATURAL

God has chosen to reveal Himself through the natural. "For theinvisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen,being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal powerand Godhead; so that they are without excuse" (Romans 1:20).However, do we see God in the natural? We should.

Some years ago, my friends wife's grandfather was diagnosedby the best physicians as being terminally ill with cancer. The doctorstold the family that Grandpa would only have a month or so to live. Iprayed about how I should pray for him. God said, that I was not topray for his comfort, but rather to give him a scripture, lay hands uponhim, a pray for his healing. I called a friend and asked him to go withme to the hospital and pray for her Grandpa's healing. I was simplyobedient to what God had told me. A few days later the doctorsdiscovered that Grandpa didn't have cancer. I called my friend to tellhim the good news. He wasn't at all surprised. It was what heexpected. However, when I shared the story with a boss, sheresponded, "Well, the doctors must have been wrong in theirdiagnosis." My friend saw God in the situation, but my boss chose notto see God in the story. Grandpa lived many years thereafter.

The bothers of Joseph took him and sold him as a slave to acaravan of Midianite merchants going to Egypt. In Egypt, Josephbecame a servant of the Pharaoh, then was falsely accused, put in thedungeon, and forgot about for years. Then God raised Joseph to aposition of authority. When the brothers of Joseph came to Egypt tobuy grain for food, Joseph revealed himself to them. The bothersimmediately feared for their lives. In the natural, Joseph could snap

his finger in revenge and his brother's would be killed. However,Joseph saw a bigger picture which included God. He told his brothers,"But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it untogood, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive"(Genesis 50:20). What do we see when we face the abuse of others?Is God in the picture?

When Joshua led the Israelites into the land of Cannan, he cameup against a mighty, walled city. The Israelites were not warriors, butthey faced a mighty fortress. "And the LORD said unto Joshua, See, I

have given into thine hand Jericho, and the king thereof, and themighty men of valour" (Joshua 6:2). God challenged Joshua to lookbeyond the natural to see what He could do in the situation. What doyou see when you face the walled fortresses in your life? May Godgrant to you the eyes to see what God can do.


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Elijah had told king Ahab that there would be no rain until hewould say that there would be rain. God honored the words of Elijah.There was a great drought that came upon the land. Then one day

Elijah prophesies of the coming of rain. He sends his servant to go tolook toward the sea. The servant returned and says that he sawnothing. Elijah tells his to return seven times. Finally, Elijah's servantreturns for the seventh time with the words, "Behold, there ariseth alittle cloud out of the sea, like a man's hand" (I Kings 18:44). Elijahknew that it was the hand of the LORD and that time was short beforea great rain would fall. He told Ahab to go before the rain overtookhim. Elijah was able to see the supernatural work of God in thenatural. May God give you eyes to see His work in the natural.

When the king of Syria came up against the king of Israel with agreat army, the servant of Elisha became very fearful. "And Elishaprayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see.And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and,behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire roundabout Elisha" (II Kings 6:17). What the servant saw in the naturalwas a great army of the enemy, but in the spiritual he saw a greaterarmy of God. May God grant you eyes to see in the spiritual thegreatness of the power of God.

In the New Testament, in John chapter Six, a great crowd ofpeople followed after Jesus to hear his teachings. The number was5,000 men plus women and children. Jesus challenged his disciples tosee in the spiritual realm. The disciple immediate surmised that theydidn't have enough money to come near the amount needed to feedthe large crowd. However, Andrew may have demonstrated somefaith by telling Jesus that there was a boy who had five barley loavesand two small fish. Even so, Andrew raised question as how that smallamount of food could feed such a large crowd. Of course, Jesus tookthe loaves and fish, break it and blessed it. Then he gave it to thedisciples to distribute to the crowd. After everyone receive enough tobe filled, the disciples took up twelve baskets full the fragments. Ihave heard men try to explain the miracle by saying, "Well, everyone

just put something into the baskets rather than taking a portion out."How stupid? Just think about it, if that would have happened, thatmay have been even a greater miracle .... getting everyone in thecrowd to give a portion of their own food and still being full after eachperson had eaten. What do you see when you face various needs inyour life? Do you just see the need, or do you see an opportunity forGod to miraculously meet that need?


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If you have not committed your life to Jesus as your Lord andSaviour, I would challenge you to see the supernatural in the naturaland commit your life to Jesus right now.

Paul prayed, "That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father ofglory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in theknowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened;that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the richesof the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceedinggreatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to theworking of his mighty power, Which he wrought in Christ, when heraised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in theheavenly places, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and

dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, butalso in that which is to come: And hath put all things under his feet,and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is hisbody, the fulness of him that filleth all in all" (Ephesians 1:17-23).This is also my prayer for you. Amen.


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Book 2 Depression

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