INTRODUCTION

When suffering depression, we can lose sight of our choices — so focused on our here-and-now pain and trouble we feel stranded (often paralyzed) in deep shadows.

I don’t believe anyone chooses to feel bad. We have free will, and our God said we must ‘choose’ the way we will go (live).

So, what part of coping with depression involves choice? And – what if we don’t know what choices are possible or which ones to make? What if circumstances seem inevitable – with no options?

Courage!  When you’re feeling lost and very far from God: If you fear you can’t find Him – be assured that He knows right where you are. Pray, Even if you don’t feel a response, trust that He heard every word, and is working for your good. Keep on keeping on.

THE CHALLENGE

Survival and success are possible. But, it doesn’t always look the same.

We must each define success for ourselves. We each use our own measure of success, and remember that feelings change. No matter if feelings are positive or negative – they will change over time. We need to recognize this fact so we can fully appreciate and savor the positives – and if we’re hit with negatives, find encouragement in the fact that as we hold on … they too will change.

We must learn to recognize small victories. They become evidence of success that can be tied together to form an emotional safety net. If we’re operating within God’s will, we will have victories!

God’s will is that we know Him and keep His commands. His most important command is clearly stated:

“…And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ This is the first commandment. And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”         Mark 12: 30-31

Notice ‘yourself’ is included in that command to love – with compassionate love that inspires us to be our best selves, in healthy, joyful service to others, and to God.

Here’s another message for each of us:

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of  peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

Be encouraged – God doesn’t depend on us to always walk confidently and perfectly to fulfill His plans. He’s aware of our weaknesses and our need of help. We’re assured that no matter what happens (or does Not happen) – His truth remains:

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. ” 2 Timothy 1:7

CONCLUSION

As the master builder, God doesn’t waste material. Even this pain, this weakness, this trial, and every small victory will contribute to the beauty and strength of His final design.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, and other research, Depression is at least 80% treatable. It’s one of the most successfully treated conditions – yet the majority who experience it don’t seek help.

Here are a few important choices we can make:

• Hang on!   Don’t give up or give in to thoughts of defeat. Keep fighting.
• Talk things out with God. Be real with Him – He can take it.
• Seek help. We need each other. Reaching out for support is calls in reinforcements. Both personal and professional help can make a huge difference – in winning your battle. Find resources (there are several listed on this website).
• Find some way to communicate with your family/friends.
• Read good books that may offer valuable ideas and suggestions. Of course, the 1^st one of these is ‘The GOOD book’. (Bible promise books are helpful.)
• Take care of yourself with sleep, diet, exercise and human contact DAILY.
• Know that you are loved.

Blessings, Love and Laughter,

Margaret

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