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Feeling depressed (2)
After being restored through proper food and rest, Elijah travelled for forty days. Then he went into a cave and spent the night. In the morning, God asked him, ‘Why are you here?’ Elijah answered: ‘I’ve always done my best to obey you. But your people have broken their solemn promise to you. They have torn down your altars and killed all your prophets, except me. And now they are even trying to kill me!’ (v.10 CEV). When we’re experiencing depression, it’s important to tell God about our frustrations. Elijah poured out all his feelings, and God allowed him to let off steam. He wasn’t shocked by Elijah’s complaints. Sometimes it’s helpful to share our feelings with a trusted friend. It’s cathartic, a cleaning out, a venting of all the things that have been pushed down inside and that are contributing to feelings of depression. And Elijah had plenty of stuff pushed down inside. Here are some of the emotions he experienced: He was afraid (see v.3 CEV). Then he felt resentment, followed by low self-esteem and guilt. ‘I’ve had enough…I’m no better off than my ancestors’ (v.4 CEV). He was angry because he had worked hard for nothing (see v.10). He was lonely to the point of despair: ‘Now they are even trying to kill me!’ (v.10 CEV). He was worried. He was feeling so many things all at the same time, so God let him spill it all out. He invited Elijah to be honest and tell Him what was on his mind, and Elijah poured it all out to Him. When we’re feeling depressed, let’s accept God’s invitation to be honest with Him and take it all to Him in prayer.
What Now?
Be completely honest with God about how you’re feeling today. If you’re happy, thank Him for the joy you feel. If you’re anxious, let Him know what’s playing on your mind. If you’re angry, tell Him what you’re experiencing. Make sure to thank Him for being constantly loving Father and friend, no matter what your current mood.
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