As the holidays draw near, many people will enter into the season, not so jolly. In fact, it's one of the times of year when depression rises at its highest point. And, it isn't just non-Christians who deal with this.
Some research shows that depression is a widespread condition, affecting millions of people, Christians and non-Christians alike. Actually, I've had my dealings with depression too - been to doctors, a shrink or two; with a combination of feelings ranging from sadness, anger, hopelessness, fatigue, and a variety of other symptoms.
Some people with depression may feel useless and even suicidal, losing interest in things and people that they once enjoyed. Depression is often triggered by life circumstances, such as a loss of job, death of a loved one, divorce, or psychological problems such as abuse, low self-esteem, even from an off-handed remark from an insensitive person.
But, there IS GOOD NEWS! The Bible tells us to be filled with joy and praise (Philippians 4:4; Romans 15:11. God wants us to live joyful lives. He actually commands us to. However, this is not easy for those suffering from situational depression, but it can be remedied through God's gifts of prayer, Bible study and application, support groups, fellowship among believers, confession, forgiveness, and counseling.
When faced with depression, the 'blues, or - 'stinkin-thinkin'; we must make the conscious effort to not be absorbed in ourselves, but to turn our efforts outward; moving the focus from ourselves to Christ and others.
Depression, anxiety, 'stinkin-thinkin' is going to be around until the last day. Sad, but true. But we, as Christians, don't have to let it extinguish our 'lights' ... So, as we approach the holidays - I urge us to focus on the true meaning of why we celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas. Let's give true thanks to the ONE and ONLY ONE who is worthy - our Almighty God. Something tells me that if we do this... It WILL BE a jolly season!
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