"Anxiety in the heart of man, causes depression. But a good word makes it glad."
Proverbs 12:25. NKJV
At some time in our life, we may be prone to depression. The weight and the pressures of life can leave us in despair. Usually for many, it is short lived as something comes along that changes our mood for the better. Some people however, are not built that way and, can plummet to the depths of darkness. This is the world of depression, anxiety and PTSD and at the time, there appears no way out of it. Some people have to go on long term medication and in extreme cases, some have too be hospitalised.
Bibleref.com puts it this way: 'Jesus warned against anxiety. He said, "Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear'" (). He offered words of encouragement by saying, "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you" (). The apostle Paul, too, warned against anxiety and told his readers to pray about everything with thanksgiving (). He promised that anxiety would cease and God's peace would guard the heart and mind (). Furthermore, the Holy Spirit has come alongside believers to encourage us in our walk with the Lord. Jesus called Him the Helper who would be with us forever (). When we are tempted to worry, the Helper brings Scriptures to mind that assure us of God's presence and provision'.
Our text above, encourages us to speak a good or kind word to whoever we know are in a depressed state. A word in season can lift someone out of the darkness and just show them that someone cares for them or, understands what they may be going through. To understand this, one has to get into a person's internal frame of reference, or sit in someone's shoes and know how it feels. This of course is not always possible but, using empathy - by listening to them and feeding back a little of what they have said, can help show the person that you are truly listening to them. We are often tempted to believe that the person who is depressed, is play-acting. This is so wrong to think this. Yes, it can be used for a form of getting attention but, we are not called to judge and, they genuinely may need help.
Who do you know who could do with an encouraging telephone call, or if appropriate, a visit?They may suffer long term mental health problems such as depression but then again, it may be caused by extreme worry and anxiety brought on by a heavy load of problems that are weighing the person down and, blocking the way of freedom. You may be just the tonic that they need. On the other hand, they may tell you that they are ok and block all of your attempts to help them. That is ok; you've at least tried and you have also touched base with them for the future when, they may be more accepting of your help and encouragement.
A word of warning, don't try too change them, just listen. You are not there to be their counsellor, just someone who wants to offer encouragement and help if they need it. If you can think of someone who could do with encouragement, why not contact them!
If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:
Lord Jesus, I have sinned
I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today.
In Jesus' Name. Amen'
Copyright 2024 Grahame Howard.
dailylifewithjesusbygrahamehoward.blogspot.com
If you would like to contact me, grahame.howard@hotmail.co.uk
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