Understanding Depression: Overcoming Despair through Christ
Living Free Every Day®
Today's Scripture
"Fill up and complete my joy by living in harmony and being of the same mind and one in purpose, having the same love, being in full accord and of one harmonious mind and intention." Philippians 2:2 AMP
Thoughts for Today
All through the Bible, we find "one another" scriptures that instruct us in the kinds of caring action and attitudes that ought to characterize our relationships as brothers and sisters in Christ. God clearly defines what kind of relationships we should have … and yet we so often fail to develop the type of relationships that he desires for us. And when we fail, we not only add unnecessary stress to our lives and the lives of those around us—but we also fail to exemplify the love of Jesus to unbelievers who may be observing.
God has blessed each of us with gifts and talents and then placed us within a body of believers with a variety of gifts. As we live in harmony and love, focused on God's plan, we can accomplish so much more than if we each try to do our own thing. And along the way, we will develop relationships that we can count on—relationships built on a foundation of God's love.
Consider this …
Do you see yourself as part of God's team? Are you and other Christians in your church—and in other churches and ministries in your community—working together in harmony? Are you focusing on differences … or on God's bigger plan? Ask God to show you personally what you can do to improve your relationship with a specific brother or sister in Christ. Perhaps it is someone you have criticized … or someone you feel as though you are competing against. Maybe you have bickered about theology or passed judgment on his or her behavior. Ask God to help you relate to this person in love and harmony and build his kind of "one another" relationship.
Prayer
Lord, I know there are times when I let personal feelings and differences interfere with my relationship with other believers. Please forgive me and help me have the kinds of "one another" relationships described in your Word. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from …
Understanding Depression: Overcoming Despair through Christ by Donald G. Miles, Ed.D. This study deals with depression, a condition common throughout the world, and is suggested for use in support groups and Christian counseling.
Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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