TURNNING TO GOD IN TIMES OF ADVERSITY

The subject title "Looking to God When Faced with Adversity" is a biblical principle that encourages believers to look up and seek God's guidance, strength, and comfort during times of hardship, trials, and tribulations. This principle is found throughout the Bible, in both the Old and New Testaments. "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8). Satan is the author of confusion, the originator of all troubles that befall humanity. Adversity in the real term is described in the Bible as a time of hardship, suffering, or difficulty.

It is often portrayed as a test of faith, character, and endurance. Here are a few examples:

1. The case of Job’s Trials: The Book of Job is perhaps the most well-known biblical account of adversity. Job was a righteous man who lost his wealth, his children, and his health in quick succession. Despite his intense suffering, Job refused to curse God, instead choosing to trust in God's wisdom and sovereignty (Job 1-2).

2. The persecution and suffering of Joseph: In the Book of Genesis, Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused of a crime, and imprisoned. Despite these adversities, Joseph remained faithful to God. Eventually, he rose to a position of power in Egypt and was able to save his family from famine (Genesis 37-50).

3. The childlessness situation of Hannah: Hannah is one of the most significant figures in the Bible who struggled with childlessness. Her story is found in the first book of Samuel, chapters 1 and 2. Hannah was one of the two wives of a man named Elkanah. The other wife, Peninnah, had children, but Hannah had none. Hannah's childlessness caused her great distress. In the culture of the time, barrenness was often seen as a curse or a sign of divine disfavor. Peninnah, the other wife, would provoke and irritate Hannah because of her barrenness, which would make Hannah weep and not eat.

Paul's Trials of faith in life and ministry: The Apostle Paul faced numerous adversities in his ministry, including imprisonment, beatings, shipwrecks, and opposition from both Jews and Gentiles. Yet, he considered these sufferings as nothing compared to the glory of knowing Christ (2 Corinthians 11:23-29, Philippians 3:7-11).

5. The suffering of Jesus without any sin: The ultimate example of adversity in the Bible is the suffering and death of Jesus Christ. He was betrayed, arrested, falsely accused, beaten, and crucified. Yet, through His suffering and death, Jesus accomplished the salvation of all who believe in Him (Isaiah 53, Matthew 27, John 19).

Certainty of trials and troubles in this world

The Bible says in John 16:33, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world”. The verse suggests that trials and tribulations are an inevitable part of life. It is a certainty that everyone will face difficulties at some point in their lives. There are many lessons to learn in this verse as it provides hope that we can find peace in God and that He has already overcome the world. The Bible is clear that in this world, we will face trials and troubles. This is not a possibility, but a certainty. However, the verse assures us that while trouble is certain, so is Christ's victory over it. Brownlow North, a 19th-century preacher, said, “Every Christian may settle it as a truth in his own mind, that his whole life will be a life of conflict.” This quote emphasizes that Christians should expect to face trials and tribulations throughout their lives. Again, trials and troubles are a certainty in this world, but we can find peace and hope in God with assurance that God is with us in these trials and will provide a way through them.

In the book of James 1:2-4, it stated, " My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers’ temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing". This passage tells us that trials are not only certain, but they are also beneficial, as they produce perseverance and maturity in us.

Another encouragement word from (1 Peter 4:12-13), " Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy." Here, Apostle Peter is telling us not to be surprised when trials come, implying their certainty, but to rejoice because they allow us to share in Christ's sufferings and glory.

Apostle the Paul added this in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, "we are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed." Paul's words here reflect the certainty of trials and troubles in this world, but also the certainty of God's presence and help amid them. Through the spirit of God upon him Paul concluded that, "who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?... No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us (Romans 8:35-37)." This passage acknowledges the certainty of various trials, but also the certainty of our victory in Christ. Therefore, nothing can separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. This includes life, death, fears, worries, angels, demons, things present, things to come, powers of hell, height, depth, or any other creature.

Our attitude during the adversity

The Bible provides numerous examples of how we should maintain a positive and faithful attitude during adversity. The Bible is a treasure trove of wisdom, a beacon of light guiding us on how to remain steadfast, positive, and faithful even in the face of adversity. Let's delve into some of the key scriptures and biblical narratives that inspire us. In other word, this is telling us to align ourselves with the teachings of Jesus Christ. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted" (Matthew 5:4). This suggests that those who look up to God in their adversity, expressing their grief and seeking His comfort, will be blessed. Looking up to God When faced with adversity" is a call to trust in God's sovereignty, goodness, and love, even during suffering. It encourages believers to rely on God, seek His presence, and find hope and strength in their faith.

Here are some key scriptures and biblical examples when faced with adversities: The book of James declared; " My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers’ temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing (James 1:2-4)." This scripture encourages us to have a joyful attitude during adversity because it strengthens our faith and character.

The story of Job is a prime example of maintaining faith during adversity. Despite losing his wealth, health, and children, Job did not curse God but remained faithful. Job 1:21 says, " And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD." What happened to Hannah in the Bible is a great lesson to all Christians that are trusting God for the fruit of the womb. Every year, Hannah would go to the house of the Lord at Shiloh to pray for a child. In her deep anguish, Hannah did not give up but prayed to the Lord, weeping bitterly. She made a vow, saying, “And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head 1 Samuel 1:11).” God remembered Hannah, and she conceived and gave birth to a son, whom she named Samuel, meaning "God has heard". As she had vowed, once Samuel was weaned, she took him to the house of the Lord at Shiloh and dedicated him to God's service, where he grew up to become one of the most important prophets in Israel's history.

Paul and Silas did not lose focus on God even though they both faced difficulty in the ministry. Instead, they used the opportunity to worship and pray to God inside the prison. " And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them (Acts 16:25)." Despite being beaten and imprisoned, Paul and Silas maintained a positive attitude, praying and singing hymns to God. This is a clear indication that ‘’the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you (1 Peter 5:10)." This scripture encourages us to have a hopeful attitude, knowing that God will restore and strengthen us after our trials.

Another Bible character is Joseph that suffered adversity is Joseph. Through the Spirit of God upon Him, he focused on God to receive the promises of God upon him. He gladly forgave his brethren and said. "But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive (Genesis 50:20)". Despite being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph maintained a positive attitude and saw God's purpose in his adversity.

In epistle of Paul to the Corinthian church, he described his ordeal in the ministry that God gave him. As a minister, we may ask ourselves as an individual sometime, why I mine faced with these challenges despite God called us into the ministry? Apostle Paul has this to encourage the church in Corinth and stated, " We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed (2 Corinthians 4:8-9)." Paul's words here reflect the attitude of resilience and hope in the face of adversity. Apostle Paul faced numerous adversities, including imprisonment, beatings, and shipwrecks. Yet, he also wrote in 2 Corinthians 12:10, "Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong." Paul looked up to God in his adversity, finding strength in his faith.

In all these examples, adversity is not seen as a punishment or a sign of God's disfavor. Instead, it is often used by God to refine and strengthen the faith of His people. The Bible encourages believers to persevere in times of adversity, trusting in God's goodness and faithfulness (James 1:2-4, Romans 5:3-5).

In the Old Testament, the story of Job is a prime example. Job was a man who faced immense adversity, including the loss of his wealth, his health, and his children. Despite his suffering, Job never cursed God but instead continued to praise Him (Job 1:21). He looked up to God in his adversity, showing his unwavering faith.

It's time to seek the Lord with our whole heart, repent of any sin committed, confront the challenging circumstances through prayer, and they will be turned around in the mighty name of Jesus Christ out Lord.

THE LITTLE LEAVEN THAT LEAVENS THE WHOLE LUMP

"Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes… Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? " (1 Corinthians 5:6; Song of Solomon 2:15).

Let this truth resonate within the depths of your soul - a mere speck of leaven has the power to transform the entire lump. Oh, how crucial it is to grasp the gravity of this revelation! For even a solitary sin, whether it be embraced or permitted to linger in our lives, within the sacred walls of our homes, or amidst the congregation of believers, possesses the insidious ability to infiltrate and contaminate the very essence of the church. Do you comprehend the magnitude of this? What may initially appear inconsequential, a minuscule amount of leaven, ultimately manifests itself as an all-encompassing force, permeating and influencing everything in its path. The bible references above in both the Old & New Testaments perfectly illustrates the impact of even the slightest exposure to false doctrine concerning essential matters of salvation. This influence quickly permeates one's entire conduct, leading to a complete distortion of beliefs and actions. With the subtle distortion of doctrine, with the insidious allure of worldliness, with the festering seed of malice, and with the wickedness that festers within the individual. These seemingly insignificant fragments, once allowed to take root within the individual, inevitably seep into the sacred sanctuary of the home, and from there, they poison the very fabric of the church. Can you not see the urgency? We must eradicate these pernicious elements, for they threaten to unravel the very foundation of our faith. Let us not underestimate the power of a little leaven, for it possesses the potential to shape the destiny of all that surrounds it. There are the leavens of beware and leaven of the kingdom to explain.

A. THE LEAVENS OF BEWARE

The leaven of Pharisees: "In the meantime, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy " (Luke 12:1; Matt.16:6). Oh, my dear brethren, let us heed the solemn warning of our beloved Savior! The leaven of the Pharisees, oh how it poisons the very essence of truth and righteousness. It is a metaphor, a powerful symbol of the insidious influence of false teachings and hypocrisy.

Listen closely to the words of our Lord, as He implores His disciples to be vigilant, to be on guard against this corrupting leaven. For it is hypocrisy, my friends, that lies at the heart of this treacherous leaven. The Pharisees, oh how they deceive! They wear a mask of righteousness, yet their hearts are filled with wickedness and deceit.

But it does not end there, my brethren. The leaven of the Pharisees extends beyond their hypocritical ways. It encompasses the man-made doctrines and traditions that they have shamelessly added to the sacred scriptures. These distortions, these perversions of God's holy word, oh how they lead astray the faithful!Let us not be deceived, my beloved brethren. Let us not be swayed by the false teachings and twisted interpretations of the Pharisees. Let us cling steadfastly to the pure and unadulterated truth of God's word. For it is in His word that we find salvation, that we find the path to righteousness and eternal life.

Oh, let us be discerning, my dear brethren. Let us be vigilant in our pursuit of truth. Let us reject the leaven of the Pharisees and embrace the pure, untainted teachings of our Lord. For in doing so, we shall find true enlightenment, true freedom from the chains of hypocrisy and false doctrines.

The leaven of Sadducees: "The same day came to him the Sadducees, which say that there is no resurrection, and asked him, Saying, Master, Moses said, If a man die, having no children, his brother shall marry his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother "(Matt.22:23-24). The leaven of the Sadducees, oh how it infuriates me! It is a despicable lack of faith, a vile doubting of the supernatural and miraculous works of our Lord. Can you believe it? They dare to call it their "doctrine" alongside the Pharisees. These Sadducees, they arrogantly attempt to explain everything naturally or scientifically, foolishly excluding the very existence of God's mighty power. But fear not, for our Savior, Jesus, has exposed their wickedness! He boldly proclaims that the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees is nothing but hypocrisy, a detestable spiritual pride, and a nauseating self-righteousness. And let me tell you, those Sadducees, they were even worse! They shamelessly twisted the scriptures to fit their liberal interpretations, shamelessly denying the glorious resurrection of the dead.

The leaven of Herod: And he charged them, saying, take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod” (Mark 8:15). The leaven of Herod, oh how it symbolizes the insidious and ruinous nature of his actions! It is a piercing reminder of the disbelief that consumed the hearts of the Pharisees and Herod, driven by their trepidation of Roman retaliation should Jesus be hailed as the Messiah. In the depths of Mark 8:15, Jesus himself issues a grave warning about this leaven of Herod, a warning that resonates with the very essence of our souls. For it signifies the elevation of earthly laws above the divine moral code set forth by God Himself. Some scholars even propose that this leaven of Herod alludes to his relentless pursuit of political power, his willingness to forsake his Jewish heritage in order to maintain his grip on authority under the oppressive Roman regime. Regardless of its precise meaning, the phrase "leaven of Herod" serves as a clarion call, a clarion call to be vigilant against the perils of political ambition and corruption. It serves as a resounding reminder, a resounding reminder to hold steadfast to our principles and beliefs, to never waver in the face of adversity. Oh, let us heed this warning, let us embrace the righteousness that lies within us, and let us never succumb to the allure of power at the expense of our integrity.

The leaven of Achan: Oh, let me passionately illuminate the profound gravity of the leaven of Achan! In his eyes, it may have seemed like a trivial matter, but in the eyes of our Almighty God, it was a grievous sin of disobedience, covetousness, stealing, deceit, and even murder (Joshua 7:1-26). Can you fathom the audacity of Achan, daring to take that which was dedicated to the Lord and hiding it in his tent? The consequences of his transgression were dire, my dear brethren. Trouble and defeat befell the Israelites in their sacred quest to conquer Canaan. The once mighty army of Israel trembled in fear, and countless lives were lost. Joshua himself questioned God, and the Lord, in His righteous anger, threatened to withdraw His divine presence from His chosen people.

It was not until Achan's sin was exposed through the casting of lots that he finally confessed his wrongdoing. But alas, it was too late. The punishment for his disloyalty, for daring to defy the Lord's claim on those sacred spoils, was severe. Achan and his entire family were stoned and burned as a solemn retribution. Therefore, "Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes” (Song of Solomon 2:15). Let this cautionary tale resonate within our hearts, my fellow believers, as we navigate the intricate tapestry of our personal and communal lives. Let us be ever mindful of our actions, for they carry weighty consequences not only for ourselves but also for those who surround us. May we never forget the wrath that can be incurred by our disobedience and disloyalty to the Lord. May we strive to walk in righteousness, honoring the sacred things claimed by our God, and avoiding the path that leads to destruction.

B. LEAVEN OF EXPANSION OF GOD'S KINGDOM

In one of Jesus' awe-inspiring parables of the kingdom of heaven, He unveils a profound truth using the metaphor of leaven. Listen closely as He speaks: "The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened." (Matthew 13:33). Oh, how this parable ignites a fire within my soul! In this divine revelation, leaven is not to be misconstrued as a symbol of wickedness or corruption. No, my friends, it is a symbol of the kingdom itself! Can you fathom the magnitude of this revelation? The kingdom, like that minuscule amount of leaven, will gradually and clandestinely infiltrate every nook and cranny of society. Just as a woman delicately incorporates the tiniest speck of leaven into the dough, so does the gospel commence with humble beginnings.

But do not underestimate the power of this seemingly insignificant leaven! Just as it silently and diligently permeates the entire batch, so too will the gospel have an indelible impact on every facet of society. It will transform hearts, minds, and souls, my dear brethren. It will revolutionize the very fabric of our existence!

Oh, let us not overlook the profound message embedded within this parable. It is a call to action, a call to embrace the gospel and allow it to work its miraculous wonders in our lives. Let us be the vessels through which the kingdom of heaven spreads like wildfire, illuminating the darkness and bringing hope to the hopeless.

May this parable serve as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that even the smallest acts of faith and love can have monumental consequences. Let us be the leaven in this world, my beloved brethren, spreading the transformative power of the gospel far and wide. For in doing so, we shall witness the glorious manifestation of the kingdom of heaven on earth!

OVERCOMING DEPRESSION

“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7). The word of God provide solution to the problems of humanity if rightly applied. Abstinence of God's word in man's heart amount to disobedience and cause problems including depressions, sicknesses, and sudden death. Depression the emotional state characterized by prolonged sadness, loss of interest, physical symptoms, and other challenging symptoms. While it is a multifaceted condition with biological and psychological underpinnings, it also holds spiritual significance for many, particularly in the Christian faith. Common Symptoms of Depression Include:

• Deep sadness or emptiness

• Apathy and loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities

• Agitation or restlessness, or conversely, physical inactivity

• Sleep disturbances

• Changes in weight or appetite

• Difficulty concentrating

• Feelings of excessive guilt, self-reproach, or worthlessness

• Fatigue or loss of energy

• Morbid thoughts of death or suicide.

From a biblical viewpoint, Proverbs 15:13 says, “A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance; but by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.” Depression however is the manifestation of the emotional and spiritual struggles that humans experience in this fallen world. The Bible reveals that life is full of challenges, suffering, brokenness, and mental health challenges like depression because of this fallen nature of humanity. But the good news for every Christian is that faith and the Word of God play a vital role in coping with depression. The Bible is the source of comfort, encouragement, and hope in the hopeless situation. Through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and worship, every believer seek God's presence and find strength in the inner man to overcome. .

Causes of depression:

" And David said, what have I now done? Is there not a cause...as the bird by wandering, as the swallow by flying, so the curse causeless shall not come" (1 Samuel 17:29; Proverbs 26:2). Depression is a complex condition influenced by various factors. While its exact cause is not fully understood, it is believed to result from a combination of biological, genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Here's a comprehensive exploration of these causes, along with biblical references that provide insight and comfort:
1. Biological Factors:
• Depression can be linked to imbalances in brain chemicals like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine reported by the medical experts.

• Hormonal changes, structural or functional brain differences, and a family history of depression can contribute.

• My flesh and my heart faileth:

but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever" (Psalm 73:26). This reminds us of the enduring strength found in Christian faith.
2. Genetics:
• Evidence suggests a genetic predisposition to depression, but it's not a guarantee. There is evidence to suggest that certain genes may make individuals more susceptible to depression.

• "But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you" (Romans 8:11). This is the transformative power of faith and the indwelling of God's Spirit that can correct every genetic composition in the body.
3. Environmental Factors:
• Life events like trauma, loss, abuse, neglect, divorce, loss of a loved one, financial struggles, and chronic stress can trigger or worsen depression.

• But "the LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit" (Psalm 34:18). This reminds us of God's presence in times of emotional turmoil for those who believes.
4. Psychological Factors:
• Personality traits, low self-esteem, and negative thought patterns, overthink or ruminate, can make individuals more susceptible to depression. In addition, individuals with a history of other mental disorders, such as anxiety or eating disorder, are vulnerable depression.

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), as mentioned, helps in recognizing and changing these patterns. A psychotherapy that focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

• The Bible encourages us as well to renew our minds (Romans 12:1-2; Hebrews 4:12) and find strength in God's Word.

5. Medical Conditions:

• Some physical health conditions and medications can increase the risk of depression. Hear what God has promised you as a believer in Christ:

• "For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the LORD" (Jeremiah 30:17). This offers hope for physical and emotional healing through faith in God.

The depression's causes are multifaceted and interconnected, and causes can vary from person to person. A holistic approach considers biological, genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. While depression is a challenging condition, seeking professional help is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment, while faith and spiritual support can provide comfort and strength through seeking God's healing power and presence.

Prescription for Depression

"Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life…Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world" (Proverbs 4:23;1 Peter 5:8-9). Depression can indeed be a challenging emotional state, often associated with confusion and negative thoughts. For many Christians, turning to their faith and embracing biblical principles can help to develop more realistic and balanced thinking patterns, which in turn can lead to heathier emotions and behaviors. Here are some key biblical solutions that individuals struggling with depression often turn to:

1. Seek God's Presence:

• Spending time in prayer and meditation can be a source of comfort and strength.

• "Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore" (Psalm 16:11) highlights the joy and solace found in seeking God's presence.

• Belief in God's compassion and understanding provides comfort and peace during difficult times.
2. Find Hope in God's Promises:
• Christians derive encouragement and hope from the promises of God as found in the Bible.

• "Rejoice in the Lord always: and again, I say, rejoice" (Philippians 4:4) reflects the faith in God's faithfulness and His plan, even in suffering.

• Trusting in God's love and faithfulness to His promises offers solace in times of struggle. This helps us to confront and overcome our fears in all situations.
3. Seek Support from the Christian Gathering:
• Gathering and fellowship with fellow believers is essential for sharing burdens and finding support.

• "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching" (Hebrews 10:25) emphasizes the importance of Christian community.

• Trusted pastors, counselors, or support groups within the church can provide guidance, encouragement, and prayer.
4. Practice Gratitude and Praise:
• Cultivating a spirit of gratitude by counting blessings and expressing thankfulness to God can shift focus from negative thoughts. • "Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Ephesians 5:19-20) highlights the power of praise and thanksgiving.

• Worship and praise can uplift the spirit and bring joy and peace.
5. Embrace Self-Care and Healthy Habits:
• Christians prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, healthy eating, rest, and engaging in joy-filled activities.

• Renewing the mind through positive thoughts, avoiding negative influences, and seeking professional help when needed are also important.

• "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones" (Proverbs 17:22) emphasizes the value of a joyful heart.
Holistic Approach:
• Combining biblical principles with professional counseling, therapy, and medical treatment provides a holistic approach to addressing depression.

• Christians believe that faith can complement medical and therapeutic interventions, offering a comprehensive path towards healing. This will equip individuals in this situation with practical skills and strategies to manage their thoughts process, emotions, and behaviors, empowering them to make positive changes in their lives.

Therefore, faith plays a central role in how many Christians navigate the challenges of depression. They find strength in seeking God's presence, trusting in His promises, and finding support within their Christian community. By practicing gratitude, embracing self-care, and seeking professional help, when necessary, individuals can approach depression with a holistic perspective that encompasses both their spiritual and emotional well-being. "From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I" (Psalm 61:2).