Majestic Worldwide Ministries,Inc.

Online Bible Study

Lesson ThreeDEPRESSION

©2009 Queen E. F. Phillips

Lessons Objectives Present biblical principles for practical

living Inspire, enable and empower others

through the “inspired” Word of God (the Bible) Enhance your Christian walk of faith by

studying and learning from biblical characters with challenges common to mankind.

Point others to the saving grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Powerful Living Bible Study Series

Anxiety Anger Depression

Fear Frustrat ion Powerlessness

Text: God's Power to Help Hurting People, Publisher: Urban Ministries (c)2003; Editor: Dr. Colleen Birchett;

(c)2009 Queen Phillips, Majestic Worldwide Ministries, Inc.

God’s Power is LimitlessTo Help and Heal

Disclaimer: The lessons, information, and links at this site are intended for biblical teaching and educational purposes and should not be construed as medical advice or instruction. In no way are any of these teachings meant to be a substitute for professional medical care or counseling.

Summary and Introduction

Scriptural Basis & Introduction 

In John 16:33 Jesus said, “I have told you these things, so that in

Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world

you have tribulation and trials and distress and

frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be

confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]” (AMP)

There’s absolutely nothing that can overtake us if we put our TOTAL trust and confidence in Him and obey the Word.Consequently, these lessons are designed to teach you how to embrace the power of God that’s available in the Person of the Holy Spirit. He will empower you to handle and overcome anxiety, anger, depression, frustration, and feeling powerless during this economic downturn.The truth is what Jesus told His disciples over 2000 years ago are applicable today. Do you believe it? Do you want help? Would like to experience the compassion of the One who created you in His image and likeness? If so, you’re at a good place to begin the healing process. We’ll focus on six (6) emotions that are most common during stressful and challenging times. It is my prayer that you receive the encouragement for which this series is purposed.

What is Depress ion?According to MediLexicon's Medical Dictionary, depression is "a mental state or chronic mental disorder characterized by feelings of sadness, loneliness, despair, low self-esteem, and self-reproach.

Ident i fy ing CausesCauses could be biological or emotional. Any of life’s challenges, major events and activities can trigger Depression, i.e., abuse, medications, conflicts, death, serious illness/terminal diseases, substance abuse, divorce, personal problems and challenges, and genetics.

Depression has become a prevalent mental disease in our world today. No one is immune from its attack. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, nationality, age or sex. Millions are affected. Yet, there is hope.

Although many may already be suffering from depression, a major trigger is our current economic situation . This is what prompted MWwM to launch this bible study series to provide help and hope to the many individuals and families that are deeply affected by depression.

Ironically, depression is not a new illness; it’s ancient. In fact, it affected persons in the bible long before Christ. We can learn how to overcome it by the power of God’s word, if you would believe and receive God’s word like a “medicine” into your mind, body and soul (spirit).

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Depression zaps a person’s energy and take a great deal of time out of one’s life. It’s affects become more intensive as the depression deepens. A person becomes more withdrawn and it becomes more difficult for others to communicate with the individual. Consequently, if the person’s mental state does not change, the person can lose the desire to face reality, or continue living. At this point, the “spirit” of depression has taken full control. But, nothing is impossible for the All-powerful One to overcome.

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Most Common:

Major Depression, also known as clinical depression

Chronic Depression, also know dysthymia

Manic Depression, also known as bipolar (disorder) depression

Seasonal Depression, also known as SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder)

Common Symptoms

Emotional› Feeling sad and

hopeless› Irritable and anxious› Loss of interest in what

you used to enjoy› Guilt, and shame › Death & suicidal

thoughts Physical

› Headache & Back pain› Appetite / weight

change› Sleeping problems› Chest pain & Joint aches› Digestive problems› Extreme fatigue

Biblical ExamplesJob, Jonah, Jeremiah, Elijah, David, Judas Iscariot.

Job’s depression was caused by a calamity of events, sickness, death of his children, loss all of his possessions, and friends that questioned his character (Job 17:1-16).

Jeremiah’s depression is notable in the Book of Lamentation because of his opposition and the rebellion of God’ s people.

Elijah became depressed after his Mt. Carmel victory, which enraged Jezebel and he began feeling all alone and wanted to die (I Kings 19:1-5)

David- gets depressed because he is overwhelmed by constant harassment from his enemies (Ps. 143).

Biblical Methods to Help Overcome Depression

Talk it Out” – being able to talk to yourself, God, or someone else (preferably a counselor). Journal it Out- writing can be a form of expression and therapeutic for depression before it intensifies. I encourage people to journal.Pray it Through – Seek the Lord’s help by talking to God, believing and trusting that He hears you and will intervene by rescuing your soul from the “spirit” of depression. Pour out your soul to Him! Read the Gospels how Jesus prayed as it was time to be crucified; depression was upon him (Matt. 26:36-38)Praise & Worship- David was a praiser and a worshiper. Praise is what he did. So when nothing worked; he praised; he song; he played his harp. (READ THE BOOK OF PSALMS)

***In no way are these meant to be substitutes for professional counseling and care. ***

Review and Discussion1.  Meditate on Psalms 41:1-13; 42:1-11.

What similarities are there that suggest depression?

2. Consider your life; do you recognize symptoms of depression? If so, how are you handling?

3. Biblical examples show us that even Christians can get depressed. From the biblical examples, how did they deal with their depression?

4. Who in the New Testament suffered major depression to the point of suicide? Why?

  

ACTIONPRAYER:Father, thank you for being concerned about every area of my life because it’s your desire for me to in peace and abundance here on Earth. I need you to help me. I confess that I am subject to becoming depressed; therefore, I’m asking that you give me the strength to overcome it in my life and the life of my family. I refuse to allow the spirit of depression to overtake me or my family in Jesus’ name. I will arise with fresh excitement and a fresh zeal for life. I surrender my all to you, and trust your sovereignty to handle life’s challenges for my good, even when it appears the worst is happening. I will meditate on your word; believe and receive your power and unconditional love, grace and mercy to carry me and my families through any situation. Thank you, Father. In Jesus’ name. Amen

Resources and Links(Disclaimer: These are only resource links for your convenience. I am not affiliated with these organizations or business entities, and cannot be held liable for their content. The information/content on the websites or books does not necessarily represent the views or beliefs of Majestic Worldwide Ministries, Inc.

http://health.yahoo.com/depression-videos/what-is-depression/healthination--

HNB10281_depression_1.html

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8933.php

http://www.hartinstitute.com

http://www.aacc.net