Nougat 27

Sometimes, we are the reason our hope is distant. In such instances, we have the antidote to our problems, but fail to take it. See what shifted when Jeremiah reached out for the antidote in Today’s Holy Nougat

Lamentations 3:55-56 CEVDCI

[55] From the bottom of the pit, I prayed to you, Lord.

[56] I begged you to listen. “Help!” I shouted. “Save me!” You answered my prayer

Depression is Real 8

There is a sense in which we have come full circle. But, let’s recognise that full circle doesn’t always mean we return to life exactly as it was when we began the circle. Not at all. If 8 is the number of new beginnings, then we certainly hope that this is at least different from where we started before. We’re hopefully a little more educated on the issue – a bit wiser perhaps – and ready to change our status. And if we aren’t the one needing transformation, hopefully we see ourselves ready to pray for, or intervene in the life of someone who faces depression.

Remember, depression is rooted in lost connections. So let’s keep our connections open. We must ensure that our priorities are people and God – not material things which cannot value us in return (see Matthew 6:19-21). And while we don’t expect to be loved by everyone, let’s remember Y’shua had:

His inner circle, Twelve Disciples (see Matthew 10:2-4; Mark 3:13-19; and Luke 6:12-16)

a wider circle, the Seventy-Two (see Luke 10),

some women who *supported His ministry* (see Luke 8:1-3), and then

the Multitudes.

Not all had perfect motives.

He loved them all, but kept some closer. Being occupied with all those various relationships might have kept depression at bay, but Y’shua also had a secret weapon: His consistent prayer life. Connection with God kept Him grounded and going, especially at the worst.

Self-Check

How vested are we in relationships? Do we take time to care for and be cared for by those in our various circles?

Digging Deeper

Having revisited how to guard against depression, and having touched the issue of depression this past week, let’s close the chapter with one key thought. No matter the counselling, medication and other connections we make; let’s keep Christ at the centre of it all.

At the peak of his despair, when the prophet cried out to God, he realised that he was not forsaken by God. God answered him. We only have to cry ‘Abba’, and like the father of the Prodigal, Y’shua will recognize us, rush out, reclothe us, renew us, and restore us to righteousness (see Luke 15:20-27). Let’s not worry about the ‘older brothers’ and naysayers. It’s us who are in the pit. And we have the assurance that God hears and answers when we cry out. That’s coming full circle.

When we recognise that Christ repairs the breech, we ought to keep Him our priority.

When we lose our peace, He is our Peace.

When we lose our joy, we find Joy in His presence.

When we lose our way, He is The Way – to Hope, to Truth, to Life. Abundant Life.

When others forsake us, He is with us.

When no one else understands our pain, our feelings of dejectedness and rejection, Y’shua’s been there.

He rose triumphantly from Death to offer us life beyond death, debt, deficit, dearth, and even depression. He’s waiting to redeem us – one cry away. That’s our hope, He is our antidote.

Point to Ponder

What prevents us from crying out to Y’shua in any season of depression; or on behalf of someone else? Let’s acknowledge it and move past it by praying that God will intervene. God’s Spirit will do just that.

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May all we seek be found in Christ