Victory Over Depression (5)

This week we've been studying ways to deal with depression so we are real about what we are feeling and available to God for what He is able to do for us in every situation.  Today we will look at a variety of challenging situations that can cause us to be sad and depressed and apply one of the following uplifting principles from God's word that will fill our hearts and steady our feet as we walk forward with God in recovery.

1. Feeling anxious and fearful in overwhelming circumstances.   Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.  “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (John 14:27, Philippians 4:6-7 NIV)

2.  When trouble has gone on for quite a while, God promises us that help will come soon and that His grace will be with us until we see things change. The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.  The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you. (Romans 16:20 NIV)

3.  When we can't see the way forward for ourselves, we can trust that God is looking ahead and preparing for us.  Our job today is to stay close to God, trusting that He has good plans and has determined a safe path forward for us.  Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.  In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps. (Proverbs 16:3,9 NIV)

4.  When hard times come God promises to use even our difficulties to grow us strong so we can be mature and have faith that we will lack nothing.  Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.  Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.  (James 1:2-4 NIV)

5.  Sometimes all we need to do is rest and allow God to carry us through a hard time, a hard day.  Simply remember that God is with us, God is carrying us, and God is making a way forward for us.  Be assured that we can safely rest in His comfort and care today.  The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.  Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.  Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light. (Deuteronomy 33:27, 1 Peter 5:6-8, Matthew 11:28-30, NIV)

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