Depression is a common occurrence in the scriptures.
Jonah was clearly depressed when he sat under the plant after prophesying to the Ninevites.
Elijah was faced with depression and asked to die after he defeated the 450 prophets of Baal.
And King David experienced depression after the death of his son.
Today depression is every bit as prominent as it was in the Bible.
But what are some real world solutions to depression? There are 5 things that depressed people should do in order to work with God towards healing: First, pray - Nothing causes depression to lift faster than prayer.
God loves it when you pour your heart out to Him.
Some are afraid to tell God how they really feel about life.
But you must remember that God knows your thoughts before you verbalize them.
So pray about your depression as a solution to your depression.
Second, read - Study the Sermon on the Mount where Jesus deals with a host of issues.
He offers some advice on topics that people often fret over, such as where every day provisions will come from.
People become depressed as a result of worrying about some of these things.
Jesus' masterpiece sermon addresses such issues.
Third, serve - There's a substantial difference in attending church and serving in one.
When we serve we give back to those who do not yet know Christ, as well as edify those who do.
Many people realize that their depression has disappeared as they get involved with other believers accomplishing things for Christ.
You do not have to have a teaching role to serve.
Service can be as simple as being a door keeper, staying in the nursery, or being on the cleaning team.
God loves a willing servant, and He blesses you for your faithfulness.
Fourth, ask - There is nothing weak about asking for help.
If you find that you are depressed, start by talking with a friend who can offer Godly counsel.
Next you should talk with your pastor.
Pastors are trained to help people who suffer with common challenges such as depression.
Tell your pastor how you really feel and ask if He will pray for you while you are with him.
There is something very powerful about having God's men pray for you as you sit with him.
Fifth, seek - If you have received Godly counsel from a friend and from your pastor but are still depressed, then it may be time to seek professional help.
You should start with your family doctor.
Depression is sometimes related to physical problems that, when treated, can relieve depression.
If this is not the case with you, you should set an appointment with a Christian counselor.
God has blessed the Christian community with wonderful and caring professionals who want to help people in your circumstance.
These are 5 real solutions to combating depression.
God bless you as you seek relief from this troubling experience.
You can find out about the three types of depression at http://www.
facing-bipolar-disorder.
com/depression.
html.