God cares for the mental wellbeing of his people. I am so glad modern medicine provides effective medicine that help thousands of people who struggle with depression. God also provides incredibly powerful support in the Bible. In a very straightforward instruction we are told to, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you,” 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV). Here is some practical advice from the Bible.
A) Pray that God may change the circumstances in your life that crush your spirit.
“Answer me when I call to you,
Psalm 4:1 (NIV)
my righteous God.
Give me relief from my distress;
have mercy on me and hear my prayer.”
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, 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.”
Philippians 4:6, 7 (NIV)
B) When God opens the door, be willing to change your circumstances, and or attitudes. In Exodus 18 Jethro gives good advice to the over-stressed Moses encouraging him to delegate some of his responsibilities to others.
“Moses listened to his father-in-law and did everything he said.”
Exodus 18:24 (NIV)
C) Pray for help that you may glorify God in your thoughts.
May these words of my mouth
Psalm 19:14 (NIV)
and this meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.
Confess and recognize that certain thought patters represent a rejection of the wisdom of God. See also Romans 12:2. Practicing mental hygiene can help counter some of the negative self-talk we may give ourselves.
D) Make a list and meditate on verses in the Bible that describe God’s power over creation, and his care for his people. See Psalms 8; 19; 23.
God is our refuge and strength,
Psalm 46:1-5 (NIV)
an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.[c]
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy place where the Most High dwells.
God is within her, she will not fall;
God will help her at break of day.”
“For nothing is impossible with God.”
Luke 1:37 (NIV)
E) Go often for walks in nature and begin a regular exercise program.
F) Join a Church Small Group and connect with people who will give you a boost.
Depression does not have to overcome you. With God’s help, you can emerge victorious.
Pastor Sam Grozdanov