Luke 4:16-21 - The Powerful, all reaching ministry of The Anointed One – Jesus!

There is an epidemic disorder among us! It affects all races, male and female, old, young, and middle age.

It is called Depression: [Statistics]

A mental, emotional disorder characterized by: prolonged lack of energy and joy; extreme fatigue; abnormal loss of interest; uncharacteristic anger and agitation; isolation; and eventual lack of hope of recovery.

This mental, emotional disorder affects the total person; physical, mental/emotional, spiritual, relational, vocational.

In short, depression deeply affects the quality of a person’s life. Sadly, if depression is left unchecked, it can also affect the quantity of a person’s life. Suicide rates are escalating, increasing the devastation of this disorder.

Contributors:

Fatigue: physical/emotional, spiritual, financial, relational

Chemical: substance abuse; medicines; genetics

Mental/Emotional Trauma: intense, prolonged pressure, loss, hope deferred

Social: rejection, withdrawal, isolation, prolonged over-exposure to social media (information elicits response)

Spiritual: outgo vs. income, demonic assignments and assaults, oppression, demonic impulses, suggestions, etc.

Truths vs. Misconceptions (Re: Depression in Believers)

Truth: The core of our healing is found in our relationship with Jesus, our Healer! Prayer, worship, Word are essential.

Misconception: Everyone can be delivered from depression solely through sustained seasons of prayer, worship. [Falsely assume and preach that one’s faith is inferior if they are not quickly delivered.]

Truth: The Lord’s healing is often a process. [John 4:52] The process is often more valuable than a quick event!

Truth: God is the Author of Light! Medical science is light. God uses men and women to study, prepare, and be used to be vehicles of His healing. [Luke]

Misconception: I can get off medication safely any time. (Not wise to jump out of a vehicle without slowing to a stop!)

Misconception: If I am just spiritual enough, I won’t need help with Depression!

Truth: Some of God’s greatest champions have had struggles with depression!

You are not alone! Bring your struggle into the light. Ask the Lord for a plan of attack involving spiritual support, and professional help if needed.

Get Some Rest! (Matthew 11:28; Matthew 14:23; Mark 6:31) Resting is not wasting!

Eat Some Good Food! (1 Kings 19:5-8)

Pour Out Your Heart To The Lord! (Psalm 22; Psalm 42; Psalm 43) Don’t hide your feelings!

Get Moving! (1 Kings 19:5-9)

Avoid Isolation! Enlist allies: Spiritual, social, professional if needed.

Stay The Course …. You WILL get through this season! (Psalm 42:11; Psalm 27:13, 14)