DEALING WITH DEPRESSION: TAKING ONE STEP AT A TIME
Jeremiah 10:23; 1 Peter 2:21; Galatians 5:25
Dr. Glenn A. Jent, Pastor
INTRODUCTION
Depression is one of the most common problems facing modern day people. Depression robs the church of many gifted people because they are unable or unwilling to serve the Lord in their depressed, defeated condition. We have talked about Spiritual Depression, or the Dry Times; the depressing problem of loneliness; and depression that comes from hating life and self. Today, I want us to learn how to avoid and/or overcome depression. First, we must realize that our life is not our own. We belong to God. Then, we need to learn to take one step at a time.
I. STOP CHOOSING YOUR STEPS (Jeremiah 10:23).
1. Your life should not be based upon personal choice.
2. Your steps should be ordered by the will of God.
II. CHOOSE TO FOLLOW IN THE STEPS OF CHRIST (1 Peter 2:21).
1. Your life should reflect the life of Christ.
2. Your steps should follow the way of Christ.
III. CHOOSE TO LIVE BY THE SPIRIT (Galatians 5:25a).
1. Your life should be filled with the Spirit.
2. Your life should be controlled by the Spirit.
IV. CHOOSE TO KEEP IN STEP WITH THE SPIRIT (Galatians 5:25b).
1. Your steps should be directed by the Spirit.
2. Your steps should be empowered by the Spirit.
CONCLUSION
Life can become a struggle leading to depression when one makes choices according to human wisdom. When we make choices according to God’s wisdom and guidance, we can avoid the frustrations and struggles that lead to a life of meaninglessness and to depression. God wants us to enjoy much more! He wants us to experience a life lived in the overflow of His love, joy, and peace. There is so much more than what the world promises to give us! Remember, God loves you! He has given us a plan to avoid and/or to overcome depression by taking one step at a time. Take the first step; then, take each succeeding step. Take each of these steps until you begin to experience the fullness of life or you begin to recover emotionally and spiritually. Start today! Do not delay another day!
God will lift you up and help you to be able to praise Him once more. If you are suffering from depression, cry out to God today! Receive all that He intends for you to have! If you need to talk about your problems, seek out the pastor or a Christian counselor as soon as possible. Do so today!
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