Living Free - May 25, 2015
Today's Scripture
"Because of God’s grace to me, I have laid the foundation like an expert builder. Now others are building on it. But whoever is building on this foundation must be very careful. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have—Jesus Christ." - (1 Corinthians 3:10-11 NLT)
Thoughts for Today
Most of our lives have been touched by depression. Some of us have experienced it firsthand. Some have experienced it through the depression of people they care about.
This week we will list two or three common symptoms of depression each day, but we won't stop there. We will also examine scriptures that can help us know better how to climb out of the dark hole of depression.
And now for today's symptoms:
- In most long-standing, major depression disorders, a family history of depression and/or alcoholism will be found somewhere in the family tree.
- Clinical depression can often be traced back into childhood. People often report they always knew something was different about themselves.
Consider this …
Before we can learn to deal with life's challenges more effectively, we must start with the right foundation. Today's scripture tells us there is only one foundation upon we should build: Jesus Christ.
We begin building that foundation when we receive Christ as Lord and Savior.
We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. (Romans 3:22-25 NLT)
Then we can strengthen that foundation by studying the Bible and making it a part of who we are . . . by regularly talking—and listening—to God . . . by spending time with other believers, encouraging and teaching one another. We need to realize we cannot do life on our own, but we don't have to. We can rely on Jesus.
Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. (Romans 12:2 NLT)
Father, so often I get sidetracked. I choose my way instead of yours. I try to fix things myself instead of relying on you and trusting your way. Help me keep my eyes on Jesus. In his name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from …
Understanding Depression: Overcoming Despair through Christ by Donald G. Miles, Ed.D. This study deals with depression, a condition common throughout the world, and is suggested for use in support groups and Christian counseling.
- Understanding what depression is and how it affects relationships
- Understanding the relationship between depression and spiritual warfare
- Ways to fight depression with scripture, prayer and mutual support
- Understanding the special prayer needs of depressed persons
- How to pray for healing and what to expect
- Serves as a powerful evangelistic tool by providing a way to minister to people's felt needs and then lead them to Christ
Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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