Freedom from Depression - 3 Biblical Principles

Three principles taken from the words from Jesus and the Bible:

1. Pray like a helpless child

One of the reasons we feel sickly depressed is because we try to command God in our prayers and feel alone when He doesn't respond.

Jesus said:
"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." Luke 18:16

Remember: We're the children. He's the Father. We must show childlike dependence.

2. You will again worship God
The Psalmist cries out in the midst of his depression and one thing comforts him: worship.

"My tears have been my food day and night, while men say to me all day long, 'Where is your God?' These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go with the multitude, leading the procession to the house of God, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng." Psalm 42:3-4

Remember: Don't hide or isolate yourself. Come into a group and worship the Lord.

3. Give up

Your view of what God expects from you is likely impossible to achieve. You need to hand your expectations of yourself over to Him. Jesus requires nothing other than that you rely on Him and His sacrifice for you. God desperately loves His children.

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-29

You cannot, in fact, ever be perfect in this life. Jesus does not require your perfection. On the cross our mighty Savior Jesus experienced all the agony of separation from His Father . . . which means you don't have to!

Remember: You are loved despite all your imperfections. Just come to Him, put your hand in His, and allow Him to lead you into life everlasting (both now and into eternity).

Click here to hear Steve's interview with Charles Morris

Taken from Charles Morris' conversation on Haven Today with Pastor Steve Schell of Northwest Church in Tacoma, WA. Steve suffered from depression from early adulthood through his mid-forties.
Note: Haven is not a counseling ministry. The following are principles about finding spiritual joy in the Lord. While helpful for anyone, especially those who are depressed, this is not a psychological cure for depression.