Thursday, June 20, 2024
Six things to do when depressed
No, I am not a counselor. But I read my Bible and I think the Bible is a very practical book on how to live your best life. It is absolutely the best counseling guide ever written.
I believe depression is real. And it happens to Christians. It happened to a great prophet, Elijah. Read I Kings 19. So depressed he wanted to die.
There are six principles and actions in this story that will help you. And will help you do spiritual counseling.
Get rest. Elijah took a nap. Exhaustion can lead to depression. So take a break. A nap. Get away for a weekend. Take a vacation. Sabbath rest is a spiritual principle.
Eat. God sent food to Elijah. Take time to eat. Better yet, eat with a spiritual mentor or good friends. Not food on the run. Or fast food. Decent food. Healthy food.
Do what God says. I don't know if Elijah understood the journey to the mountain. But God told him to go and he went. So if you are not doing what you should, then start. Show up for worship. Be thankful. And obviously, stop doing what does not please God.
Spend time with God. Worship. Pray. Meditate. Read the Bible. Elijah was in the presence of God.
Listen to God. He may not speak in an audible voice like He did to Elijah, but He does speak. Listen to Godly people in your life. But above all, read God's Word. He will speak right into your life thru His word.
Remember you are not alone. Elijah thought he was the only faithful prophet until God told him there were 7000 faithful prophets he did not even know about. You are not going thru anything that God's people have not faced. You have a community of faith that will help you. Walk with you.
Principles for depression. Use them. Share them.
They help.
