But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.

[No one has to suffer with depression. The Lord can, will and HAS healed you. By his stripes we are healed! Cast out that demon of depression and DO NOT let him get another foothold in your life. Believe you are healed and you will be. The Lord is awesome and loves you. He did not give you nor does he want you to have this illness. He wants you to trust in him and believe in him for his healing grace and you will see miracles in your life. AMEN! :) ] 

changed on Monday, December 27, 2004 11:57:07 AM

He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. 

According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: 

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

I have struggled with depression for years. I have come to see that it is something that will always be a part of my life. It's how I deal with it that is important. I read Elizabeth George's book, Loving God with All Your Mind about 9 years ago. It has helped me see what truth is -- God loves me, I'm precious to Him, He desires to have a relationship with Him, I am HIS child, and the list goes on. I look for God in everyday things. Often times, we overlook the protection, provision, the beauty in creation, people He has placed in our lives to care for and to care for us. Another thing I try to do is make my thoughts a prayer. Constantly talking to my Heavenly Father and praising him through difficult times. It's not easy. It's a discipline. I've given my depression to the Lord to be used by Him. I can't begin to tell you the number of people I have had the privilege to speak with who struggle with depression. Don't feel bad about taking medicene. I take Zoloft. It doesn't mean I'm not trusting God. It keeps my nose above the "waves" when those "storms rock my boat." 

changed on Saturday, June 07, 2003 12:17:29 AM

The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.
I picked the wrong verse the first time, sorry I'm new at this site. I have just come off paxil. I have been on it for about a year. With it I no longer dreaded knowing that I must get out of bed. I originally started taking it due to PMS but found that I really was severly depressed. With the paxil I felt like I could now clean my house, cook dinner, and wash clothes. And if I didn't get everything done that I had on my list that's ok I don't have to get upset about it. I have been off it a little over a week now, and seem to be doing ok. I can tell some small parts of the old stuff may be trying to creep back in but I'm holding my own. The reason I have chosen to come off it is that I am already overweight and being on it I have gained 40 more lbs in a year. Get on the web and do some research into the drugs and side effects. Paxil is not the only drug. Educate yourself. The bible says that HIS people perish for the lack of knowledge. This is not only spirital knowlege but also physical knowledge. Do your homework and do what's best for you. HE knows your heart. And who's to say that you have to take it forever? 

changed on Monday, May 05, 2003 12:48:38 AM

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 

And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Depression is a thorn of the flesh...given to us by God so that we can learn of His strenght in a deeper way. Rest in that truth. Trust in His strength to get you through this difficult time. I am praying for you. 

changed on Tuesday, March 25, 2003 12:15:09 AM

But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.

I suffer from depression too. I understand the frustration. I suffered for years before someone finally clued me in that depression and anxiety are PHYSICAL disorders...not just merely an indicator of a weak spiritual life or being negative. I couldn't take it anymore and I finally took an antidepressant. I felt a tremendous difference in my overall outlook of life. It does not feel like a false happiness...I feel like myself. I believe there are legitimate reasons for taking these kinds of medications. Talk to your doctor and don't let anyone tell you that you are wrong for doing that. God is bringing you through this trial of depression. You will be stronger for it...like gold! You will be a stronger person and more equipped for serving the Lord. You will be clothed with compassion and empathy for others when they suffer from this. Please look up www.Drgrantmullen.com. He is a Christian doctor who specializes in mood disorders. His articles have been helpful in clearing up misunderstanding among Christians regarding mood disorders. The Lord uses doctors too! 

changed on Friday, March 21, 2003 1:29:53 PM