Depression can be defeated by acknowledging the feelings of being depressed and allowing the Holy Spirit to bring peace and comfort in positive thoughts. Our thinking plays a major role in how we feel. Thoughts are impacted by circumstances and situations that we often have no control over. God wants us to cast our cares, hopelessness, and feelings of sadness over to him. This will allow us to not distracted by our emotions which are subject to change and potentially cause us to go into the wrong direction if they are not addressed. God loves us so much and He does not want us to be in a state of depression. “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”

1 Peter‬ ‭5:7‬ ‭

God’s way of doing things in our lives is not coincidental. He ordains the timing of seasons, connections, and opened doors. Our obedience to His will is important as He connects the details even when we don’t see the ending. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the LORD. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.”Isaiah‬ ‭55:8-9‬

Developing leaders takes humility because it allows us to take a step back to allow the gifts of others to be used. True leadership starts with being a servant and considering others better than ourselves for the sake of glorifying God. “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men.” Philippians‬ ‭2:3-7‬ ‭

Communication is beyond just being talkative. A person can have a lot to share and be knowledgeable about many things, yet not be able to effectively communicate. Communication connects to our mind, will, and emotions. There is a level of humility, patience, gentleness, and understanding needed for consistent and effective communication. “Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.” Colossians‬ ‭4:6‬ ‭

This message is about the five languages that are commonly used to communicate love. Operating in love languages involve denying ourselves and considering others better than ourselves. “Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians‬ ‭2:3-4‬ ‭

If you are single and desire to get married or if you are married and desire to safeguard your marriage for purpose to consistently flow with less distractions, this message will encourage your journey. “Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up.” Ecclesiastes‬ ‭4:9-10‬ ‭

Having integrity is a condition of our hearts. As we continue to surrender our lives to Jesus, we should no longer desire to do some of the old habits that displease Him and cause negative consequences. Our integrity walk is a reflection of our thought life. Fear and self can play major roles in whether we walk in truth or walk in deception. “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” Proverbs‬ ‭10:9‬ ‭

When we are deeply rooted in Jesus, our thoughts, actions, and life decisions change to glorify Him. We are not easily swayed by the storms and influences of the world. Being deeply rooted in Christ is a life long commitment in which He strengthens and sustains us.“I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Praise be to you, Lord; teach me your decrees.”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭119:10-12‬

“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭2:6-7‬ ‭

The first part of glorifying Jesus is receiving His love and allowing Him to change our hearts so that we live surrendered lives unto Him. Christ centered purpose filters our everyday decisions so that we can stay focused on pleasing Him. The Holy Spirit will help us to step out of our comfort zones to live purpose driven lives that impact others. “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Ephesians‬ ‭2:10‬ ‭

Purpose driven friendships will be challenged throughout the course of our lives. Friendships that God sends should edify and challenge us to become more Christ-like versus causing us to stumble and backslide. There should be love, grace, and a reciprocation of actions in the friendship that makes it fruitful and healthy.

“The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense.”‭‭ Proverbs‬ ‭27:9‬ ‭. “A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity.” Proverbs‬ ‭17:17‬