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Depression is not normal

Many in today's society are experiencing depression. It is blamed on the fast pace of life, and ever increasing demands for the success of a person. However, I do not think this is a new phenomenon. These also happened in the days of the old testament. One example is Elijah.

1 Kings 19:4, But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he prayed that he might die, and said, “It is enough! Now, Lord, take my life, for I am no better than my fathers!”

He had a very successful time in defeating the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel. God was with him, and yet he cried out for God to take his life. This further tells me that only God is perfect. You cannot decide on matters by looking to man. If a great prophet can fail like this, what more a regular follower of Jesus Christ. Our focus needs to be on Jesus. Not man. God asked a good question. Elijah had more greater things to do. He needed to overcome depression by looking beyond himself to God.

1 Kings 19:13, So it was, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood in the entrance of the cave. Suddenly a voice came to him, and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”

1 Kings 19:15-16, Then the Lord said to him: “Go, return on your way to the Wilderness of Damascus; and when you arrive, anoint Hazael as king over Syria. Also you shall anoint Jehu the son of Nimshi as king over Israel. And Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abel Meholah you shall anoint as prophet in your place.

What is your hold back? What is MY hold back? Under the authority given to me, I have prayed for many. Not just in private places, but in the departure level of an airport (just yesterday). Why? Because I know God is with me, like He was with Elijah. I am not perfect, but God is able.

Father, let me be reminded of the verse that says we cannot be entangled with the affairs of this life, but choose to please Him who has chosen us. 1 Timothy 2:3-4

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