3 Self-Study Projects for the Depressed [Pt 3 of 3]
Today, Dr. Bob Somerville provides us with the final post in this 3-part series on depression. In Part 1, he drew out of Elijah’s experience some of the common causes of depression. In Part 2, he showed how God ministered to the hurting prophet in his time of despair. Today, he supplies us with suggested Bible studies to encourage those who are depressed.
Study Psalms 50:14, 23; 54:6; 116:17 (Be sure to study the verses in their context.)
- Why do you believe the psalmist talks about a ‘sacrifice of praise?’
- Compare these Psalms with James 1:2, 1 Thess 5:18 & Hebrews 13:15. How does “consider it all joy” and “give thanks in all things” relate to a sacrifice of praise?
- What is the greatest trial you are currently facing?
- Define that trial in one sentence.
- In prayer give a sacrifice of praise by thanking God for that trial.
In Romans 8:28 we are promised that God will work all things together for good.
- List as many ways as you can for how God could be using your current trial (depression) for good.
- Using the fruit of the Spirit, as listed in Galatians 5:22-23, determine how God could be using the trial (depression) to produce patience, kindness, goodness etc., in your life.
Stand firm in your faith (1 Peter 5:5b-11).
- Write out a clear statement of your faith including the promises of 1 Peter 5:10.
- Determine three steps you will take in order to ‘resist Satan firm in your faith.’
- List at least 10 of the true promises of God that you can speak to yourself when you are tempted to discouragement or depression due to your trials. (See Psa 42 esp verses 3-5 & 11 and Psa 43 especially verses 2-5 and Phil 4:8)
