MEMORY VERSE: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff comfort me.” Psalm 23:4
BIBLE PASSAGE: Job 3:23-26.
INTRODUCTION
Depression is misunderstood by many, and it often carries a stigma. It can distort one’s perception of reality or make people doubt their judgement. Only those who have gone through depression can comprehend how terrible the experience can be. Finding healing is possible but this may take time. Some people may give the wrong advice because they do not understand depression. Therefore, it is important to find out the truth about depression and tips that can help people going through it.
OUTLINE
1.SOME WRONG PRE-CONCEPTIONS
2. HELPFUL TIPS FOR THE DEPRESSED
1.SOME WRONG PRE-CONCEPTIONS
SOME WRONG PRE-CONCEPTIONS
- Preconception: Depression is not real. Reality : Depression is a real illness that impacts the brain’s ability to operate as it should.
- Preconception: Depression is a sin. Being depressed means you are failing to trust God. Reality: Depression is a mental illness, not a sin.
- Preconception: Depression will go away if you pray hard enough or have enough faith. Reality: Depression is a serious illness that usually needs prayer plus treatment. God gave doctors and mental health professionals the understanding and skills to help those who are suffering.
- Preconception: Depression is a punishment from God. If you feel depressed, it is because you have not confessed your sins John 9:1-3. Reality: Depression is not the fault of the person who is suffering. It is a trial that can redefine someone’s faith, but it is not a punishment for sin.
- Preconception: People with depression are unstable and cannot be trusted with church leadership or responsibilities. Reality: Depression and other mental illnesses do not disqualify people from leadership or church roles except during times of ‘deep depression’. The experience can give people compassion or perspective in a way that makes them good leaders 1 Samuel 30:1-10.
- Preconception: It is shameful to discuss mental illness openly. Reality: Church community should be a safe space for people to discuss mental health without prejudice.
- Preconception: You can always tell if someone is depressed by outward appearances or actions. Reality: You cannot always tell that someone is depressed from how they look or act. Some depressed people are so skilled at hiding their conditions that you would never know.
2. HELPFUL TIPS FOR THE DEPRESSED
These are some helpful tips if you are a christian going through depression or if you know someone who is:
- God cares about your suffering Hebrews 4:15; 1 Peter 5:7.
- Like biblical patriarchs, you are not alone Jeremiah 20:7-11; 1 kings 19:4-6; Psalms 42:9.
- God’s love and faithfulness does not depend on you. His love for us is solely dependent on his character, grace, and goodness Lamentation 3:21-23.
- God saves and delivers from afflictions Psalm 34:18-19.
- God can bring good even out of something as wearying as depression Romans 8:28.
- There is still hope. Your low thoughts and emotions are not the truth Job 14:7-9; Romans 8:35-39.
- You can find strength by leaning on community Romans 15:1.
- Your friends and family can help you by praying and being there for you.
- It is not a sin to seek professional help for depression as christian Luke 5:31.
- Do not allow anything to separate you from God Romans 8:38-39; Hebrews 12:2.
CONCLUSION
With God’s love and support from the people around you, you can get through depression.
FURTHER READINGS
SUN:Job 14:7-9
MON: Romans 8:35-39.
TUE: Psalms 34:18-19
WED: 1 Samuel 30:1-10.
THUR: Lamentation 3:21-23
FRI: Romans 15:1
SAT: Jeremiah 20:7-9.