Beauty for Ashes: God's Plan for Victory Over Depression!

[Close_to_Jesus]

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You know, there is a lot of craziness going on in the world right now.  People are getting desperate and I read somewhere that suicide is very high at the moment.  Our message this week is called “Beauty for Ashes:  God’s Plan for VICTORY from Depression”.  In a world full of hopelessness, we as the children of God rely on Him as our one true hope, amen?  Even if you don’t care to hear the message, I wanted to put out a few questions that might inspire a discussion to help those in need:

1. It’s important to remember that we are not alone in our suffering.  Not only is God always with us, but others have been where we are.  If you have an experience of coming through depression, despair, or hopelessness, consider sharing how you were delivered.

2. Can you recommend some good scriptures (or even messages) that might help someone that’s feeling depressed?

3. We know what the Bible says about suicide, share your thoughts if you like.

All of my responses to this, including how I came through a very deep, dark, depression, are shared in the weekly message if it’s something you’d like to hear.

 

God bless you all.

[JohnR7]

On 10/11/2022 at 2:06 PM, Close_to_Jesus said:

“Beauty for Ashes:  God’s Plan for VICTORY from Depression”

I do not know how anything can be easier or more simple. If people think negative thoughts, they are going to be depressed. If we think positive, then we can be gland and rejoice. The law of attraction talks a lot about what we attract into our life is our choice. 

I get depressed sometimes watching TV because of all the negative energy. So I either have to turn off the TV or do not let it get to me and cause me to be unhappy and depressed. Even if there is a lot of negative energy, we choose how we are going to respond. 

[Space_Karen]

Making an effort to recognize and adjust thought patterns. Helped me to improve my mentality.

There are many expectations culture and society place upon us that lead directly to depression.

We're often expected to rage and throw a tantrum if events don't go our way. But that doesn't lead to anything more than a self destructive melt down and burn out. Leaving people feeling more depressed. 

Overcoming depression is learning to unlearn those negative behavioral trends and thought processes.

[BibleStudent100]

2 hours ago, JohnR7 said:

I get depressed sometimes watching TV because of all the negative energy

Like you John, I find the news, particularly about Ukraine to be discouraging.  I have always prided myself on being constantly dialed into current events; I now find that I have to limit my intake of the news in order to keep my hopes up.  

Depression and feelings  of angst afflict many.  To help others we can “speak consolingly to those who are depressed.” (1 Thess. 5:14)  We can lift their spirits by expressing our genuine care and concern for them. We can offer sincere commendation to help them see their positive qualities and abilities.  We can reassure them that God deeply cares for his servants who are “brokenhearted” or “crushed in spirit.” (Ps. 34:18) Our tender words can have a healing effect on those who need comfort.—Prov. 16:24.