{"id":1309,"date":"2021-04-01T16:50:19","date_gmt":"2021-04-01T20:50:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/evangelicalfishersofmen.com\/?p=1309"},"modified":"2021-12-15T06:33:53","modified_gmt":"2021-12-15T11:33:53","slug":"in-depression","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/evangelicalfishersofmen.com\/home\/in-depression\/","title":{"rendered":"IN DEPRESSION"},"content":{"rendered":"

Though the\u00a0Bible<\/a>\u00a0doesn\u2019t use the word \u201cdepression\u201d except in a few translations and verses, it\u2019s often referenced by other similar words, such as \u201cdowncast,\u201d \u201cbrokenhearted,\u201d \u201ctroubled,\u201d \u201cmiserable,\u201d \u201cdespairing,\u201d and \u201cmourning,\u201d among others. Throughout the Word, there are a number of stories about godly, influential men and women of\u00a0faith<\/a>, who struggled and battled through dark times of hopelessness and depression. Many of us may find ourselves struggling there today.<\/p>\n

\"Is<\/p>\n

Does this describe you or anyone you know? Stressed, frustrated, anxious, trouble-sleeping or sleep-deprived, despondent, or sad? When God speaks, he does not normally do it through handwriting in the sky or some big dramatic event \u2014 he \u201cwhispers\u201d softly to us as we sit and read or listen to his Word and spend time in prayer.<\/p>\n

God has a way of changing our outlook even though our situation stays the same. He can turn our \u201cmourning into dancing\u201d and \u201cclothe\u201d us with gladness (Psalm 30:11<\/a>,\u00a0ESV). Jesus, alone, can put in us a \u201cspring of water\u201d\u00a0that hydrates our souls forever (John 4:14<\/a>). We cannot live life on our own. We need God and we need others. Recognizing that truth is the first step. Now, draw near to God through prayer and he will draw near to you (James 4:8<\/a>), and then you will \u201cfind grace to help in time of need\u201d (1 Peter 5:7<\/a>, ESV).\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

\"Depression<\/p>\n

If we slow down long enough to listen, cut out the clutter, and squelch the noises from our busy, distracted lives, we will hear Jesus say to us: \u201cCome to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest\u201d (Matthew 11:28<\/a>,\u00a0ESV). \u201cCast\u00a0all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you\u201d (1 Peter 5:7<\/a>, ESV).\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

Deuteronomy 31:8<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n

\u201cThe Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.\u201d
\n
\nFOR APPLICATION IN YOUR LIFE:<\/strong>\u00a0While depression can make you feel lonely, God is still there with you. And he\u2019s not going anywhere.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Philippians 4:8<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n

\u201cFinally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable\u2014if anything is excellent or praiseworthy\u2014think about such things.\u201d
\n
\nFOR APPLICATION IN YOUR LIFE: <\/strong>Although there may be difficult or dark times, taking time to be grateful and reflect on things that are good can lift your spirits.<\/p>\n

Philippians 4:13<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n

\u201cI can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.\u201d
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n

FOR APPLICATION IN YOUR LIFE: <\/strong>Depression can zap your energy and make it feel almost impossible to accomplish even simple tasks. But this verse reminds you that Christ is always there for you. Through him, you can find the will to get through even the darkest times.<\/p>\n

John 16:33<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n

\u201cI have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.\u201d<\/p>\n

FOR APPLICATION IN YOUR LIFE: <\/strong>Jesus knows that you will experience difficult times. These comforting words can be a source of strength as you reflect on His love for all of us. Through faith, you can overcome the obstacles in your life.<\/p>\n

Jeremiah 29:11<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n

\u201cFor I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for peace and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.\u201d<\/p>\n

FOR APPLICATION IN YOUR LIFE:<\/strong>\u00a0There are better times ahead. God has a plan for you, even if your current circumstances are proving difficult.<\/p>\n

Matthew 11:28<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n

\u201cCome to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.\u201d<\/p>\n

FOR APPLICATION IN YOUR LIFE: <\/strong>Feelings of depression can be a heavy burden, and many people make the mistake of thinking it\u2019s a burden they must carry alone. This verse serves as a reminder that Jesus is there to lift your burdens and provide relief.<\/p>\n

Proverbs 3:5-6<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n

\u201cTrust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.\u201d<\/p>\n

FOR APPLICATION IN YOUR LIFE:<\/strong>\u00a0When you\u2019re struggling with depression, it can be difficult to understand why you\u2019re feeling certain emotions. This verse reminds you that the way forward is by trusting the Lord to provide guidance. Things will look up.<\/p>\n

Psalm 23:4<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n

\u201cEven though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.\u201d<\/p>\n

FOR APPLICATION IN YOUR LIFE:<\/strong>\u00a0This verse serves as a reminder of God\u2019s love for us. Even in dark times when you\u2019re confronting difficult situations, He is walking alongside you and guiding you on a righteous path forward.<\/p>\n

Psalm 9:9<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n

\u201cThe Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

FOR APPLICATION IN YOUR LIFE: <\/strong>Depression can make you feel as though you\u2019re weighed down. But no matter how troubled you feel, this verse reminds you that the Lord is always there to support you.<\/p>\n

Matthew 6:33<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n

\u201cBut seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

FOR APPLICATION IN YOUR LIFE: <\/strong>If you place God first in your life and focus on him, he can help you find what you need to overcome all obstacles.<\/p>\n

Joshua 1:9<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n

\u201cHave I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.\u201d
\n
\nFOR APPLICATION IN YOUR LIFE: <\/strong>Through previous struggles in your life, God has always been there. Even if you\u2019re struggling with depression and other mental health concerns, God will continue to be by your side. This verse can empower you, and it reminds you that you are not alone.<\/p>\n

Psalm 40: 1-2<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n

\u201cI waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry. He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure.\u201d
\n
\nFOR APPLICATION IN YOUR LIFE:<\/strong>\u00a0The vivid imagery in this verse is especially relevant for those dealing with depression. It truly can feel like you\u2019re in a pit sometimes. Through faith in God, you can find stability once again.<\/p>\n

Isaiah 41:10<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n

\u201cFear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.\u201d<\/p>\n

FOR APPLICATION IN YOUR LIFE:\u00a0Dealing with depression can be scary. But this verse reminds you that with God on your side, there\u2019s nothing to fear. You\u2019ll find the strength you need to weather the storm by placing your trust in him.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Psalm 34:18<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n

\u201cThe Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.\u201d
\n
\nFOR APPLICATION IN YOUR LIFE:<\/strong> Even when you\u2019re in low spirits, God still loves you.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

If you or a loved one is struggling with suicidal thoughts and tendencies, please get help. Don\u2019t try to face this on your own. There is hope and healing, and there are many who will journey through this trial with you. Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) at any time day or night 24\/7, to talk to someone who understands. Or go online at\u00a0www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org<\/a>\u00a0for more information and help.<\/p>\n

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<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Though the\u00a0Bible\u00a0doesn\u2019t use the word \u201cdepression\u201d except in a few translations and verses, it\u2019s often referenced by other similar words, such as \u201cdowncast,\u201d \u201cbrokenhearted,\u201d \u201ctroubled,\u201d \u201cmiserable,\u201d \u201cdespairing,\u201d and \u201cmourning,\u201d among others. Throughout the Word, there are a number of stories about godly, influential men and women of\u00a0faith, who struggled and battled through dark times of …<\/p>\n

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