Dealing with Depression

Elijah was a man with a nature just like ours. He prayed that it would not rain and it did not for 3.5 years. Then he prayed again and it rained. Elijah, was a person just like us. At this point that may seem a bit redundant because I keep saying it throughout this series, but understand this. It is true. And in the same way we look to Elijah’s faith as an example of the great things we can do for and with God, we must understand that our like nature is also limiting. Yes we can pray and move mountains, but sometimes we can’t change our own environment. Yes, we can speak truth to power and tell our leaders where they are wrong and misleading our people, but sometimes we feel powerless. Yes, in Christ we can call on heaven and heaven answers, other times it seems like heaven’s line is busy and we've been on hold for years. Here is my point, just because Elijah is a prophet does no mean he is not human, and because he is human he will struggle with emotions even depression. If we are honest with ourselves we like Elijah have been are are currently depressed.

(Set the Stage-v.1-4)

1. God still Provides (v.5-8)

God is still providing for us and taking care of us even when we can not take care of ourselves.

2. God is Still Present (v.8-12)

God now makes it a point to reveal Himself to Elijah as a further reassurance of God’s presence. To stand on the mountain. The LORD was passing by, first the wind, then an earthquake, then the fire, then a small voice. God does not always have to show up in extravagant fanfare, he doesn't always have to do something incredible. If you are looking for God he is the small places.

3. God Still has Purpose for You (v.15-17)

God is not finished with you yet! God is not finished with Elijah. Elijah’s conclusion is that this is the end of his ministry. This is why he goes alone, this is why he left his servant in Beersheeba. Yet, his conclusion is not God’s conclusion. And I’m so glad today that when I thought it was over, God told me to keep going. (Preach)

His assignment is to anoint Assyria a new King, anoint a new King over Israel, and anoint your successor.

Keep going. When you are depressed Dr. Ian Cook, director of Depression Research & Clinic Program at UCLA gives some natural ways to treat depression: Get a Routine, Set Goals, Exercise, Eat Healthy, Sleep regularly, challenge negative thoughts, take on new responsibilities (not more), avoid drugs and alcohol.

4. There are still People like you (v.18)

You are not by yourself. There is always someone else who is going through what you have been through, and what you may be experiencing right now. God has a way keeping us through our tough times. Depression can cause us to think irrationally about our circumstances. It seems like we are alone, that is never true.

Community is so important. Find yourself some people who are like you who don’t want anything from you but to help you survive.

And please understand this group of people ought to be someone who like you, loves God.

I come to the garden alone

While the dew is still on the roses

And the voice I hear, falling on my ear

The son of God discloses

And he walks with me

And he talks with me

And he tells me I am his own

And the joy we share as we tarry there

None other has ever known

I'd stay in the garden with him

Though the night around me is falling

But he bids me go

Through the voice of woe

His voice to me is calling

And he walks with me

And he talks with me

And he tells me I am his own

And the joy we share as we tarry there

None other has ever known

And the joy we share as we tarry there

None other has ever known