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Depressed

Pastor Craig Groeschel Shares Two Truths To Remember When You’re Feeling Depressed

by Christel Berns September 5, 2023

Are you feeling depressed lately and have no one to talk to about it? Maybe you feel like no one would understand, and you often feel invalidated by those around you? Here are two truths you must remember if you’re battling depression.

Depression Is Real

Depression is a real and complex issue that affects people in the church. Life Church Senior Pastor Craig Groeschel shared a profound message about depression in his Peace of Mind series.

Life.Church (Screenshot). (2022). Message To Those Battling Depression, Retrieved September 5, 2023 from: https://youtu.be/pQ3_GI2H0wY

Pastor Craig opened his message by sharing about the life of his Christian friend Tim, who was battling depression. He described him as “the most generous, most kind, most uplifting person.”

“On the outside he looked happy, but on the inside he felt hopeless, empty, dark, afraid, and alone,” he said.

Apparently, Tim had battled with “serious suicidal thoughts” for many years already. But because he was a very encouraging person, no one would notice the real battle inside him.

The Church Should Be The Safest Place To Depressed People

Then he remarked on the sad reality that often happens in churches today.

“The church should be the safest place to talk about feelings of darkness and depression.. and yet it’s often not,” he said.

Nik Shuliahin. (Photographer). (2017). Sad man, Retrieved September 5, 2023 from: https://unsplash.com/photos/BuNWp1bL0nc

In the church setting, people are often afraid to be vulnerable because it comes across as question their faith. Because often times well-meaning Christians advise, “get over it, you know, just put your faith in Jesus and everything will be okay.”

Thus, it creates an environment that isn’t safe for someone dealing with depression.

Jeremiah

The pastor admitted he is not doctor nor a licensed counselor, but he wants to help people battling depression. He went on to share about the life of Jeremiah and pointed out that the first thing we should remember is that “your emotions are actually valid.”

Jeremiah was actually depressed when he saw the destruction of Israel before his eyes. It is evident in his cries we read in the book of Lamentations.

Pastor Craig explained that regardless of our church culture that “your emotions are valid.” However, he added that “your emotions are valid, but they are not permanent.”

Then went on to share a second truth to remember if you’re battling depression, “Even when everything feels hopeless, with our God, there is always hope.”

You might feel hopeless right now. But the moment you begin to acknowledge the condition of your heart healing will start. The good news is God is with you in the healing process. In Him, there is always hope.

Listen the entire message in the video below.

Two Truths to Remember When You’re Battling Depression

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Reference | Life.Church

Header Image: Life.Church (Screenshot). (2022). Message To Those Battling Depression, Retrieved September 5, 2023 from: https://youtu.be/pQ3_GI2H0wY

September 5, 2023 0 comment

Articles Video

Depressed And Suicidal Young Woman Finds Jesus

by Christel Berns December 7, 2021

written by Christel Berns

A young woman, depressed and suicidal, finds hope after meeting a Christian in a mental institution she was admitted to whom God sent to speak to her.

Depressed And Suicidal Teenager

Growing up, Arynn had an arbitrary view of God. For that reason, she saw Christians as emphatic people who want to turn her away from anything fun. Although she went to a Christian college, the teen lived a double life. Hence, she decided to believe God just in her mind and at the same time just do her own thing.

YouTube | 700 Club Interactive

At 18-years-old, Arynn learned to drink and party. The teenager felt edgy since she was breaking the rules and did things for the first time. She had fun until all her actions caught up to her. Arynn didn’t realize the destruction it brought in her life until it led her to depression and even cutting herself. Self-harming became her reward to herself.

One night, Arynn tried to end her life with a razor and slit her wrists. And for the first time in a long time, she cried. A friend took her to a mental institution a week after. That’s when she hit the lowest of lows in her life.

YouTube | 700 Club Interactive

Finding Hope

One day, as Arynn went into a room where all patients were hanging out, a Christian guy came up to her. He told her that God wants to speak to her.

“He said, ‘I can feel your pain. I can feel what’s coming off of you and I want you to know God loves you. And He hasn’t left you,” he told Arynn. The guy also urged her to read the Bible every day, starting through Psalms and the Gospel books.

And that word the young man released to Arynn stirred hope inside of her. Suddenly, she saw a vision of herself getting out of the mental institution and doing something good with her life. But indeed, that’s what God amazingly did.

“The only thing that can really fix your brokenness is Jesus,” she remarked.

Watch how Arynn overcame her struggle with depression and self-harm over time as she starts reading the Bible!

"I never thought I'd end up in a mental institution" - Spiritual Consistency Saved Her Life

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YouTube | 700 Club Interactive

December 7, 2021 0 comment

Articles

8 Things To Do When You Are Depressed

by Joseph Mattera March 25, 2021

written by Joseph Mattera

Everyone has been “down in the dumps” at a certain point in life.

There have been points in my life when I have had to continually battle against discouragement, depression, and anxiety because of all the responsibilities and uncertainties that I deal with on a regular basis. I have also endured several seasons of severe emotional pain and trauma while still attempting to function at a high level, leading my family and various ministries.

During the past 12 months, a phycologist friend told me that all the mental health professionals he knows are completely booked with appointments during the past 12 months because of the difficulties during COVID-19 and the political unrest. That being said, we need to know what to do when we are emotionally downcast, discouraged, or depressed.

The book of Psalms illustrates God’s ways amid all human emotions, including depression.

Psalm 42 shows us eight things to do when we are depressed:

1. Continue to seek after God even during seasons of emotional pain (Psalm 42:1-2).

In the context of when the Psalmist wrote this, he was panting after God the same way a deer pants for streams of water. Even though he was downcast and oppressed by the enemy, the Psalmist knew that seeking after God was more important than any of his temporal challenges. He always prioritized that as the object of his spiritual disciplines. Since he lived a hungering lifestyle after God, rather than seeking God for His benefits, he was anchored to this immutable Creator who centered the Psalmist’s life when his emotions were unstable.

Centering our emotions on seeking God will eventually stabilize our life.

2. Pour out your soul unto God (Psalm 42:4).

The Psalmist did not merely “say prayers,” He poured out his soul to God! He did not hold down his emotions with religion but was honest with God. The Psalmist was in touch with his feelings and let everything in his inner-most being gush out of his heart in the presence of God. If we do not face our real emotions and give them over to God, we are not giving His Spirit the space to heal us and rescue us from our depressed state.

3. Do not isolate yourself. Stay in the family of God (Psalm 42:4).

The Psalmist understood the power of fellowshipping with other believers. The worst thing we can do when we are depressed is to isolate ourselves from the church and other Christians. The power of community is vital. Even the remembrance of it strengthened the Psalmist and helped get him out of his funk. “Two are better than one… for if they fall, one will lift his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10).

4. Get to the root of the problem by asking yourself the right questions (Psalm 42:5).

The Psalmist knew that a depressed emotional state is a sign of a more significant problem inside his heart. He did not ignore or deny these feelings. but asked himself the right questions to detect his soul’s real issues. Hence, being self-aware is a key to getting out of depression. Once we know what we are dealing with, we can apply God’s word to it so we can view our situation from His perspective instead of our own.

5. Remember what God has already done for you in the past (Psalm 42:6).

It is important to journal so we can recount all the miracles, answers to prayer, and providential guidance God has accomplished on your behalf. Remembering what God did for us in the past will help us have faith when faced with great challenges that cause emotional distress. The Bible tells us not to forget His benefits so we can bless the Lord (Psalm 103:2). The children of Israel rebelled against God because they forgot His works (Psalm 78:8-9). The Psalmist said that he would intentionally remember Him while his soul was downcast within him. Consequently, it’s important to keep a record and review all God has done for you when you are in the midst of fiery trials. As a faith builder, you can hold on to that, and it can pull you out of the shadows of mental gloom.

6. Allow God to go deep within you (Psalm 42:7).

Those who seek God are not interested in mere religion, but want to go deep with Him. During the Psalmist’s severe emotional trial, he knew it was an opportunity for Him to touch the depths of his soul. This is why he said “deep calls unto deep.” Thus, every crisis of the soul is an opportunity for us to go to another level of spiritual formation that can redeem our emotional discouragement and depression.

7. Ask God what He is working inside of you and what is happening (Psalm 42:9).

While in a state of being downcast, the Psalmist went to God with questions about his condition. Hence, while depression is a sign that something is wrong in our soul, it is also an opportunity for God to give us greater insight into His ways and His dealings with us.

The Bible promises us that if we lack wisdom, we can ask God who gives to all without finding fault (James 1:5).

8. Put your ultimate trust in God for your future (Psalm 42:11).

Amid great emotional turmoil, the Psalmist gathered all of his internal strength and said that his hope was still in God, whom he will praise in his eventual victory. He had to go against his feelings to anchor his heart in the divine hope (Hebrews 6:19). Not only that, but he knew God was also the help of his countenance, which was his outlook in life framed by his oppressed mental state. Thus, going against his feelings by putting his trust in God, was the key to escaping the miry clay of depression (Psalm 40:2).

March 25, 2021 0 comment

Articles Video

God Turns A Depressed, Armless Man Into A Great Inspiring Preacher

by Christel Berns September 25, 2020

written by Christel Berns

A man born without arms questioned and hated God for not giving him arms. But now, he glorifies God as he became a great preacher and continues to inspire the world with his story.

Daniel Ritchie grew up having a normal childhood. His parents loved him and trained him not to say things like “I can’t.” However, outside of the home, he faced relentless bullying.

Darkness And Depression

“I remember coming home from a trip to the grocery store with my mom at seven years old, in tears. Because someone had said insulting things to me. There was the time that I had to fend off a rude kid at Disney World — the happiest place on earth. And then there was the time my parents and I were asked to leave a restaurant because I was eating with my feet,” he recalled.

The constant judgment he received from people eventually led him to a place of darkness and depression. Then he started hating people and questioned God.

“God if You love me, why didn’t You make me like everybody else?” he told God. And Daniel became a hyper introvert.

Hearing The Gospel

But one day, a schoolmate invited him to church to hang out and play dodge ball. There, Daniel heard the Gospel for the first time. A youth pastor shared a simple devotion that literally changed his life.

“Even when I absolutely hated God and questioned His judgment, and I was frustrated…He was pursuing me…” he said.

From that moment on, all his doubts disappeared and he gave his heart to Jesus. And days and weeks right after he got saved, all the weight he was carrying lifted. More so, he started to see himself as God’s amazing creation.

Preacher and wife

Becoming A Great Preacher

At 16-years-old, God led Daniel to teach and preach. And for 18 years now, he is still speaking to a lot of people.

“Only God can take an armless hermit and use him to go tell the world about His hope,” Daniel said.

Today, he is 34 and married with two beautiful kids. Moreover, he continues to change lives as a pastor.

“I want people to look at my life and to see how God takes broken things and unlikely people. And by His grace, He stitches them back together and uses them for His glory,” declared Daniel.

"God if You love me, why didn't You make me like everyone else?" Powerful Testimony!

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Reference: CBN News, 700 Club Interactive

ALSO READ: Nick Vujicic Doubted He’d Get Married, Until God Unveiled His Incredible Love Story

September 25, 2020 0 comment

Articles

The God of Perfect Judgement

by Henrietta Decruz August 10, 2019

written by Henrietta Decruz

Are you angry after seeing the rising incidents of shooting, violence and wickedness around the world? When such things happen we wonder where is God? What is He doing? Why does He not stop this?

In such times, it is important to understand God and His real nature. True, God is all powerful, but He is also long-suffering to all of us who have sinned otherwise each of us would have perished the moment we first sinned.

God and Justice

Job 34:12, 14-15 says, “Truly God will not do wickedly, neither will the Almighty pervert justice. If [God] should set His heart upon him [man] and withdraw His [life-giving] spirit and His breath [from man] to Himself, All flesh would perish together, and man would turn again to dust.” AMP

Even Habakkuk in his time had the same questions and complained saying, “For destruction and violence are before me; and there is strife, and contention arises. Therefore the law is slackened and justice and a righteous sentence never go forth, for the [hostility of the] wicked surrounds the [uncompromisingly] righteous; therefore justice goes forth perverted.” (Habakkuk 1: 3-4 AMP)

Injustice, violence and wickedness are not something only this generation is experiencing. It started with Cain and Abel and went on until the days of Noah. Genesis 6:5-7 says, “The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination and intention of all human thinking was only evil continually. And the Lord regretted that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved at heart. So the Lord said, I will destroy, blot out, and wipe away mankind, whom I have created from the face of the ground—not only man, [but] the beasts and the creeping things and the birds of the air—for it grieves Me and makes Me regretful that I have made them.”

Thankfully the world didn’t end at that time. God remembered His promise to Abraham so He didn’t destroy mankind completely. Noah found favor in His eyes, God chose his family to continue the human race.

God waits

God is a just God. Isaiah 59:15 tells us, “Justice is turned away backward, and righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God) stands far off; for truth has fallen in the street (the city’s forum), and uprightness cannot enter [the courts of justice]. Yes, truth is lacking, and he who departs from evil makes himself a prey. And the Lord saw it, and it displeased Him that there was no justice.”

As you have done, it shall be done to you; your dealings will return upon your own head. Obadiah 1:15

At such times, God stirs up His prophets and says what He said in Zephaniah 2:2 “[The time for repentance is speeding by like chaff whirled before the wind!] Therefore consider, before God’s decree brings forth [the curse upon you], before the time [to repent] is gone like the drifting chaff, before the fierce anger of the Lord comes upon you–yes, before the day of the wrath of the Lord comes upon you!”

When God says, “Time up!” He really means it. Obadiah 1:15 says, “For the day of the Lord is near upon all the nations. As you have done, it shall be done to you; your dealings will return upon your own head.”

Haman’s wicked plan

We can see a perfect example of God’s justice in Esther chapters 5 – 7. Haman had sneakily got the King to sign a decree to destroy the Jews in his kingdom. He hated Mordecai with all his heart and plotted to kill him. God placed Esther in the palace and at a very crucial time, she was instrumental in the deliverance of the Jewish people from Haman’s wicked plot.

Esther – the Queen who stood up for her people

What is extraordinary is how perfect the justice of God is. Haman ordered for a gallows be made. He left early in the morning to speak to the king, to arrange for Mordecai to be hanged. As he came before the king, the king said to him, “What shall be done to the man whom the king delights to honor?”

Haman gleefully thought, “Who else will the king want to honor other than to me?” He rattled out a list of the grandest things he could think of. But horror of horrors, the king told him to hurry up and do the same to Mordecai the Jew and leave out nothing that he had spoken about!

Imagine the torment Haman went through as he placed royal apparel that the king had worn and the horse which the king had ridden, and a royal crown on the head of Mordecai! Besides that he had to take Mordecai on horseback through the open square of the city, and publicly proclaim, “Thus shall it be done to the man whom the king delights to honor.”

God’s perfect justice

On the same day Esther approached the king and Haman was invited to dinner with the king and queen. Esther invited them both to dinner the next day too. The king asked Esther, “What is your petition, Queen Esther? It shall be granted. And what is your request? Even to the half of the kingdom, it shall be performed.”

She said, “If I have found favor in your sight, O king and if it pleases the king, let my life be given me at my petition and my people at my request. For we are sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, slain, and wiped out of existence!” The king asked her, “Who is he, and where is he who dares presume in his heart to do that?” She then pointed out the culprit, “An adversary and an enemy, even this wicked Haman.”

As the king’s anger rose he was told about the gallows Haman had made for Mordecai. A servant named Harbonah said, “Behold, the gallows fifty cubits high, which Haman has made for Mordecai, whose warning saved the king, stands at the house of Haman.” And the king said, “Hang him on it!” So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai. Then the king’s wrath was pacified.”

Isn’t God’s justice perfect? Haman was hanged in the very same gallows that he made to hang Mordecai. Not just that the wicked plans he made to destroy the Jews were altered so that the Jews could defend themselves and save their lives.

God has a time for justice

If you are depressed and feel despair at the state of things, just put your trust in God. Since God is a merciful God, He has given those who are wicked grace and time to repent. In Jeremiah 46:17 it says, “They cried there, Pharaoh king of Egypt is destroyed and is only a noise; he has let the appointed time [in which God had him on probation] pass by!”

It is good to fear God as He holds our very breath in His hand. Those who are wicked would do well to repent and change their ways for when God says, “Time up!” they will run out of grace and God will judge them. Job 11:20 speaks about what happens to the wicked when judgment comes, “But the eyes of the wicked shall look [for relief] in vain, and they shall not escape [the justice of God]; and their hope shall be to give up the ghost.”

God should not be trifled with or taken lightly. He means every word He says. Romans 2:6-8 says, “God will repay each person according to what they have done. To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger.”

What can we learn from this?

Ecclesiastes 12:13 sums it up very well. It advises us saying, “Fear God [revere and worship Him, knowing that He is] and keep His commandments, for this is the whole of man [the full, original purpose of his creation, the object of God’s providence, the root of character, the foundation of all happiness, the adjustment to all inharmonious circumstances and conditions under the sun] and the whole [duty] for every man.”

It is good for us to examine our hearts from time to time so we can repent for the evil things we have done. God is not a hard taskmaster. First and foremost He is a merciful God. Jonah said, “You are a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness, and [when sinners turn to You and meet Your conditions] You revoke the [sentence of] evil against them.” Jonah 4:2

Jesus came to save sinners

Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came down to earth and allowed Himself to be crucified on a cross like a criminal though He had done no wrong at all (The Roman Governor Pontius Pilate certified this). He did this so that fallible people like me and you could make the biggest exchange ever by trading all the wrong, evil and wicked things we have done with His righteousness.

Jesus said, “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.” John 5:24 NIV Those who accept the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, are saved from the punishment they deserve because Jesus paid the full penalty for their sins.

Many people think that it is fine to carry on living the way they lived before they accepted Jesus. But Jesus wants us to live by His values and obey His commands. Jesus says to us in John 14:15, “If you love me, keep my commands.” In Romans 12:9 Paul advises saying, “[Let your] love be sincere (a real thing); hate what is evil [loathe all ungodliness, turn in horror from wickedness], but hold fast to that which is good.”

When Jesus saved the woman who was caught in adultery, He said to her, “I do not condemn you either. Go on your way and from now on sin no more.” John 8:11 AMP Jesus is saying the same thing to us too. We need to let go of the old life, resist all temptations and do our part by living like Jesus did. Jesus a lived sinless life even as a human being. He is the perfect example for us to follow and our role model.

If you love Jesus do as He said

If we really love Jesus and are grateful for what He has done for us, we will obey His instructions. Jesus said, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12 NIV)

Jesus said, “From now on sin no more.” John 8:11

We live in a fallen world, where it is easy to sin and be sinned against by others. Heaven is the opposite of this world. It is the inhabitation of God, Who is perfect. He is holy and pure. Jesus says in Matthew 5:48, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”

Grace – an empowerment to not sin

It is sad that many people treat the grace of God as a ‘licence to sin.’ How can a holy and perfect God say that it is okay to live in sin? In Romans 6:1-2 Paul asks a very important question, “What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?”

Hebrews 12:14 says, “Be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” NIV In order to ‘see God‘ we will need to be overcomers who overcome temptations and live a righteous life. Besides seeing God and going to heaven, there are more benefits of following God’s commandments. Revelation 2:26 says, “To the one who is victorious and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations.”

Heaven is a wonderful place. There are no tears there! Revelation 21:4 says that, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” NIV When our time on earth is over, far from the aches and pains, grief and sorrow of this fallen world, we will all stand in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ with Whom we will live forever!

Is Jesus your Savior?

If you have not yet received Jesus as you personal Savior, you can do so now. It is simple! Romans 10:13 says, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Those who have been born into Christian families should not take this for granted, they too need to personally accept Jesus as their Savior. We cannot live our lives based on the faith of our parents. Heaven and Hell are real. Each person should make their own personal decision to choose Jesus.

To make Jesus your personal Savior, you can ask Him to do so in your own words. It could be a small prayer to Jesus like this, “Dear Jesus, I believe that You died on the cross for my sins and rose from the grave to give me new life. Lord, I want to know who You really are. Please reveal Yourself to me. Forgive me for everything wrong that I have done, change my heart and teach me the way You want me to live. Amen.”

If you have asked Jesus to be your Savior, find a good church in your area that follows the Holy Bible, which is the Word of God. If you cannot find a church near you, you could also join an online church.

If you are looking for a good resource to do a Bible Study on the subject of Love and Justice – Click here

The Cross – a symbol of the sacrifice Jesus made to save us from the consequences of our sins.

August 10, 2019 2 comments

Faith

Do You Find Yourself Powerless?

by Henrietta Decruz June 19, 2019

written by Henrietta Decruz

Have you felt that life happens to you rather than the other way around? You look at people doing things, getting excited, planning and making things happen while you are stuck in a rut.

Young People, Alone, Sad, Dog, Room, Lost Place

A passive life can feel like a road with a dead end. You feel like you have no worth, no value. When you see the lives of others you feel that you are wasting your life and not able to do anything about changing it.

You feel depressed, lonely, ashamed, unwanted, inferior, inadequate, helpless and incapable of making a difference. You unconsciously feel hurt and are affected by what others speak as you think they look down on you. Everything seems to unravel and fall down. You can’t see the way forward.

If this sounds like your life, there is good news for you. You can get out of the rut. You can change your life. You can change and become a positive and strong person. You have the power to change! It is available to you for the asking. Isn’t that wonderful?

I remember being in that place many years ago. Things were so bad that I felt it was meaningless to live and felt like giving up. At that time I didn’t know Jesus as my personal Savior. Knowing Jesus personally brought a revolution in my whole way of experiencing life.

Getting to know Jesus better gave me a clear sense of identity. I could tap into His power whenever I needed help through the power of His Word. I didn’t have to do anything alone, He was there ever ready to help at any time night or day!

There is a solution!

Life is difficult for everyone. But life can be extremely hard if you have no support, no friend to say a kind word or show a gesture of love. Jesus knows this deep pain of being rejected and unloved. While He was carrying His Cross up the hill of Calvary, He was humiliated and rejected by everyone, including His very own disciples whom He loved.

Nobody could understand the depth of His pain as He cried out to His Father while He was on the Cross. Mark 15:34 says “And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?—which means, My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me [deserting Me and leaving Me helpless and abandoned]?”

Who could understand our pain and suffering better than Jesus Himself? Knowing When we ask Jesus into our lives, He gives us joy, peace and strength. He gives us the strength to do everything we need to do.

Philippians 4:13 says, “I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency].”

The Word of God gives those with failing hearts courage. God speaks through His Word assuring us His help. Perhaps we have been trying different things but nothing is working out. 2 Corinthians 4:16 reassures us saying, “Therefore we do not become discouraged (utterly spiritless, exhausted, and wearied out through fear). Though our outer man is [progressively] decaying and wasting away, yet our inner self is being [progressively] renewed day after day.”

Yes, these difficult times too can serve a purpose in our lives. They teach us the value of patience and perseverance. They build us and make us stronger on the inside. Being strong on the inside is valuable. Imagine a man or woman who looks physically strong but when a challenge is thrown before them, they suddenly become weak and helpless. What use is outer strength if the inner person within is not strong?

Know your identity

We need to learn that our identity is not based on the things we have or don’t have, titles, how we look or how much wealth we have. All these things can be lost in a moment! The things we have can be stolen or destroyed, the titles we take pride in could be given to someone else, we can grow old and lose our good looks, we could have one bad deal and lose our wealth too.

Relationships can break down at any time, people we know can turn and go away too. If we lose everything we take pride in, then who are we? Ask yourself, “Who would I be if I lose everything that has value to me?”

God created us. Our real and true identity is based on God Who made us. That same God, the Creator, sent His only Son to die for us on the Cross. John 3:16 says, “For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten ( unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.”

God paid the ultimately price so that we could become His very own. He gave up His only most beloved Son Jesus for our sake so we would know His love for us. Jesus gave up His throne in Heaven and came down to earth to live as a mere mortal man, know pain and suffering and be put to death so that we could be saved.

That is the price that God paid for us to be His again! If the life of Jesus was ‘priceless’ imagine what it means that He gave up His priceless life so that you could be saved! You are priceless, did you know that?

Don’t give up

Perhaps you are tired of doing the right thing and feeling like it is not helping you at all. Galatians 6:9 tells us, “Let us not lose heart and grow weary and faint in acting nobly and doing right, for in due time and at the appointed season we shall reap, if we do not loosen and relax our courage and faint.”

Image result for God strengthens us

Psalms 29:11 also promises us, “The Lord will give [unyielding and impenetrable] strength to His people; the Lord will bless His people with peace.” Don’t worry, you will get through this difficult time.Psalm 55:22 says, “Cast your burden on the Lord [releasing the weight of it] and He will sustain you; He will never allow the [consistently] righteous to be moved (made to slip, fall, or fail).”

Proverbs 3:5 says, “Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding.” Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Don’t depend on human wisdom but cry out to God to show you the way forward. He will give you the best solution for your situation.

Don’t worry

Don’t let worry consume you. In Matthew 6:25 Jesus says, “Therefore I tell you, stop being perpetually uneasy (anxious and worried) about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink; or about your body, what you shall put on. Is not life greater [in quality] than food, and the body [far above and more excellent] than clothing?”

In Matthew 6:27 He asks, “And who of you by worrying and being anxious can add one unit of measure (cubit) to his stature or to the span of his life?”

In difficult times we may feel tempted to start drinking alcohol, taking drugs or do things to keep our mind away from our problems. Proverbs 23: 29-34 warns us, “Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has strife? Who has complaining? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness and dimness of eyes?

“Those who tarry long at the wine, those who go to seek and try mixed wine.; Do not look at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the wineglass, when it goes down smoothly. At the last it bites like a serpent and stings like an adder. [Under the influence of wine] your eyes will behold strange things [and loose women] and your mind will utter things turned the wrong way [untrue, incorrect, and petulant]. Yes, you will be [as unsteady] as he who lies down in the midst of the sea, and [as open to disaster] as he who lies upon the top of a mast.

Any worldly solution will not bring lasting peace. Every thing worldly you try will ultimately lead to some loss or destruction in the time to come. In John 10:10 Jesus says, “The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).”

Let us turn to the Lord Jesus in the times when we feel helpless, powerless, lonely, defeated, lost and confused. Let us keep away from destructive habits and influences that mislead us.

Let us learn from David

We can learn from David who sought the Lord and kept on praising Him during even the toughest times in his life. In Psalm 34:1-4 he says, “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My life makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble and afflicted hear and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together. I sought (inquired of) the Lord and required Him [of necessity and on the authority of His Word], and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.”

Like David, we can turn to the Word of God to find the assurance, the hope and peace we need. The Word of God is an excellent source to help us overcome our struggles, our problems and difficulties in life. We can claim the promises that Lord has given us and stand in faith believing that God Who is a keeper of His Word will surely come through for us.

Jesus is calling you saying, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.]” (Matthew 11:28). Won’t you let Jesus calm your heart and take your worries and burdens away?

Note: All verses quoted are from the Amplified Bible

June 19, 2019 0 comment

Articles

Letter To A Depressed Christian

by GOD TV November 21, 2018

written by GOD TV

I was bothered by the thought that most people are suffering from depression and suicidal thoughts. Statistics shows that anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the ages 18 and older, or 18.1% of the population every year. This breaks my heart, especially since it is widely affecting my generation!

As much as I want to help those suffering, I can’t find the exact words to say. Yes I have my own struggles, but I thank the LORD for His endless grace that I didn’t go through depression. However, to be clear, it doesn’t mean that you’re not covered by the grace of God if you do go through depression. In fact, depression is not from God, but He is the solution to it.

As I researched this issue, I found an open letter that will help you reconnect with the Healer of your heart:

Dear Depressed Christian,

I know about the scars on your wrists. I know you spend your sleepless nights crying. I know about the days that pass meaninglessly by as everything important you’re supposed to do remains undone.

I know you think nobody loves you, that you can’t do anything right, that you’re the laziest, most self-centered, incompetent, cowardly, ineffective speck of dust God has ever created.

I also know that you’re only alive because you’re still figuring out if you’ll go to heaven if you commit suicide now, and that you feel ashamed for being afraid to die.

You feel overwhelmed.

Just like Moses. The people of Israel started lamenting to God about only having manna to eat when they had fish, cucumbers and leeks back in Egypt. God was angry with them and Moses felt burdened with having to care for all these ungrateful people. In Numbers 11:15, he told God, “Please go ahead and kill me.”

You feel alone.

Just like Jesus. His disciples fled. The crowds screamed, “Crucify!” And in Matthew 27:46, He cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”

You feel like it’s all your fault—or at least that’s what some others tell you.

Just like Job. He lost his property. His children died and he was stricken with illness. He didn’t do anything wrong, yet his friends said to him in Job 4:7, “Who, being innocent, has ever perished?”

People tell you, “Everything is going to be okay,” but you can’t believe them. You’re in a dark cave with no torchlight and everywhere you walk is the wrong direction, because you have no idea where you are going. It’s hard to believe, but Psalm 40:1–2 says, “I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; He set my feet on a rock.”

People tell you, “You can do it,” but you can’t believe them. You’re lying in bed, staring at the ceiling, and you have no energy or willpower to do anything. And everything you do will be wrong anyway. It’s hard to believe, but Psalm 37:24 says, “Though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with His hand.”

People tell you, “God loves you,” but you can’t believe them. You’re in agony, alone and tired in a crowded room full of people with high expectations of you and hidden agendas, saying things they don’t mean. It’s hard to believe, but He promises in Psalm 34:18, “The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Our Comforter is not silent. Through His Word, He speaks to you and me.

It takes a mountain of effort to do anything. It’s going to be like this for a while. But don’t stop trying. Slowly, one thing at a time, start doing things like bathing, eating, and praying. Make it a routine. Then read the Bible, eat a meal with someone, or go grocery shopping.

Learn to find beauty in small things. Eating something warm. Hugging a soft toy. Reading a Psalm. It’s not easy because your world is colored gray, but it helps you to keep going. Thank God for something every day. It may not make you more grateful; but it is therapeutic.

Even if it feels like you are just going through the motions, keep at it.

Meaning is something you find by living.

Think of the people you can tell about your depression.

The people you just thought of are people who love you. You are loved. Tell them what you’re going through. They may not understand, but you’ll feel better. Tell them what you think might make you happy, something funny you noticed, or comment on their new hairstyle. Ask them to pray for you.

Include God in that list.

Because God really loves you, above and beyond what any human is capable of. Romans 8:38–39 says, “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Sources: Ymi.today Adaa.org

This article was compiled by Le-Jovale Vallejo.

November 21, 2018 0 comment

Video

Muslim Woman Gives Jesus One Week to Prove Himself Before Ending Her Life

by GOD TV August 1, 2018

written by GOD TV

Padina from Iran had always been faithful to Islam. As a child, she was diligent in reciting daily prayers and would memorize the Quran before going to school. She believed every word and worked hard to follow Islam’s strict rules. She would go out of her way during her prayer sessions, thinking it would please Allah.

She grew up hating Christians and would rejoice each time she heard of a Christian being persecuted. She was taught that if a Muslim killed a Christian they would receive a one way ticket to Heaven as a reward from Allah.

But one day, despite her hard work to please Allah, she felt distant from him. Padina became depressed and thought of committing suicide. Unfortunately, her mom was also sick and dying and she couldn’t think of any other solution than to end both of their lives.

She decided to end their suffering when amazingly God used a Christian TV program to intervene in this desperate situation. Her mother called the number on the screen and gave her life to Jesus. This made Padina furious, she took over her mom’s call and argued with the prayer counsellor.

“I’m gonna kill myself and your Jesus cannot do anything for me!” she said. The counsellor couldn’t change her mind but he made a startling proposal. “Give Jesus just one chance and you can kill yourself next week,” he said.

One week later, Padina was shocked by a miracle that made her realise that no imam could have accomplished this, “it was Jesus.”

Today she and her mother as part of Iran’s underground church. Considered apostates by Islam they now share this truth wherever they can, despite fear of persecution. Watch and be amazed. Also, pray for persecuted believers in Arab lands.

Muslim Woman Gives Jesus One Week To Prove Himself Before Ending Her Life. Then This Happens!…

Watch this video on YouTube

Source: Voice of the Martyrs

August 1, 2018 0 comment

Faith

Share the Faith: 10 Inspiring Quotes that Will Strengthen Your Faith Today

by Nathan Simpson April 13, 2018

written by Nathan Simpson

We all Need Inspiring Quotes Sometimes

We all have rough days: Days when everything seems to be going wrong. In 2018, it’s easy to lose your faith. It seems like everything gets worse and worse, but we can’t afford to lose the faith! It’s time we take back our faith and wave it around higher than ever! If you’re needing a little boost today or know someone who needs some faith encouragement, take a look at these ten inspiring quotes about faith and find yours again!

1. “There isn’t enough room in your mind for both worry and faith. You must decide which one will live there.”

2. “To trust God in the light is nothing, but to trust him in the dark — that is faith.” —Charles Spurgeon

3. “Your faith can move mountains, and your doubt can create them.”

4. “Faith is taking the first step, even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” —Martin Luther King Jr.

5. “Faith isn’t a feeling. It’s a choice to trust God even when the road ahead seems uncertain.” —Dave Willis

6. “Faith is trusting God has a purpose for all that’s happening in your life without knowing why.” —Rick Warren

7. “Faith is trust — trust that God sees what we cannot, and that he knows what we do not.” —Dieter F. Uchtdorf

8. “When we are in fear, we have more faith in the enemy’s plan, than in God’s plan.” —Chloe Gooden

9. “Your faith will grow, not by chance, but by choice.” —Neil L. Andersen

10. “Faith is to believe what you do not see; The reward of faith is to see what you believe.” —Saint Augustine

April 13, 2018 0 comment