When we lose a loved one, our job, our home, our church
family or a beloved pet, depression often hinders our mind from seeing any joy
in life. We wallow in self-pity and hide under the covers, nursing our wounds.
Of course, we have a right to grieve, and it is very healthy for us to do so; but we often carry it way too far. We may even turn to addictions to erase our pain. We can choose to be lonely, or we can choose to reach out. A smile will change our whole attitude.
Of course, a fake smile will wear thin and tears will often wash it away. The smile must come from our heart; therefore we need to think of something or someone that honestly makes us happy. The fact that Jesus saved us for eternity always puts a smile on my face.
Of course, we have a right to grieve, and it is very healthy for us to do so; but we often carry it way too far. We may even turn to addictions to erase our pain. We can choose to be lonely, or we can choose to reach out. A smile will change our whole attitude.
Of course, a fake smile will wear thin and tears will often wash it away. The smile must come from our heart; therefore we need to think of something or someone that honestly makes us happy. The fact that Jesus saved us for eternity always puts a smile on my face.
Serving in our church family puts a song in our heart and a
smile in our steps. Reading our Bible and other spiritual books, listening to
praise music or watching inspirational movies and testimonies will also help to
bring us up from the pit of depression.
In addition, we can return to a previous interest, start a new hobby or get together with former, cherished friends. Making new memories and meeting wholesome new friends can also change our life.
In addition, we can return to a previous interest, start a new hobby or get together with former, cherished friends. Making new memories and meeting wholesome new friends can also change our life.
Often our friends are too shy to reach out, or do not know
what to say or how to help us. So, please communicate how you feel, return
calls, invite people over for dinner or go out with the crowd and get lost in
it. Some former friends may drift out of your life, but let them go. God has
new friends for you just around the corner. Trust in Him to see you through
this trying time and to bring you safely to His eternal joy.
Prayer:
Father God, You always use the negative aspects of our life
for our good (Romans 8:28). We may not see anything positive
at this time, but in hindsight, it becomes very clear that You had a purpose in
it all (Proverbs 5:21).
We often want the answers now, but You have Your very own time and way to meet all of our needs (Proverbs 3:5-6). Remind us that rather than doing all of the talking during our times of prayer, that we need to listen in order to hear Your voice.
We often want the answers now, but You have Your very own time and way to meet all of our needs (Proverbs 3:5-6). Remind us that rather than doing all of the talking during our times of prayer, that we need to listen in order to hear Your voice.
Thought for the Day:
Jesus comforts us with the consolation He received from our
Father; and we can turn around and comfort others with the same reassurance He
gives to us in our time of need. - 2 Corinthians 1:4
