The Turbulence of Depression


by Dr Bob Wilkerson - Date: 2007-03-20 - Word Count: 724 Share This!

I hate the turbulence created by depressive thoughts. Depression, yuck, let's change the word "depression" to something more pleasant to the ear. Can we make up a new word for feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and restlessness that come with depression? What could we call it? Anyone got an idea. However, regardless what we call these feelings they will still create turbulence in our mind and ultimately in our life.

Worse than the feelings of depression is the conversations in our mind, self talk, regarding who we are, what are situation in life is, and hope for our future. Listen to this conversation between Satan and self. Remember Satan is the father of all lies and in most cases, depression is related to the lies we tell ourselves.

"You are so worthless." Satan says with a chuckle.
"You know I am worthless." Self replies.
"You situation will never change, "Satan's voice says.
"I should have done things differently. How could I have been so stupid? I must be worthless to behave like that." Self agrees with the lies of Satan.
"Your future is absolutely hopeless." Satan says with a grin.
"You know what my future is hopeless. Oh my God, I have no hope." Self agrees.

The conversations we have with ourselves can determine to a large degree what we feel. If we can change what we think, we can change how we feel. If we can change how we think and feel, we have a great chance of changing how we act. Of course, not all depression can be changed by just changing our thoughts but in all cases, it can help.

Normally three morbid thoughts (lies) accompany depressive feelings and behavior.
1. We tell ourselves we are worthless. We are bad people and deserve to be punished. This statement isn't true. God loves you and you are special in the eyes of God. Say that to yourself repeatedly, until it sinks deep into the inner resources of your mind. I am special in my Father's eyes and so are you. In regards to the punishment issue remember Jesus took all our punishment on the cross. We are clean in God's eyes and we certainly don't deserve punishment.

2. Our situation is horrible. I cannot stand to live like this anymore. I don't know what your situation is but I no it isn't horrible. The holocaust was horrible. Being burnt at the stake is horrible. I might not like what is happening at the moment but sure doesn't rank at the same level as being eaten alive by ants. It might be extremely unpleasant but not horrible. In addition, believe me, you can stand it. You might not like it but you can get through it with God's help.

3. The future is hopeless. Who says the future is hopeless? Who is telling you this lie? Satan wants to destroy your hope in the future because he knows your future is bright. Satan wants to create turbulence in your life because you are less affective for Christ when you are in a state of turbulence. The truth is, if you are in Christ, you future is bright. There is hope in this life and in the one to come. We have a promise of eternal life and life more abundant right here on planet earth.

I know these answers to depression might sound too simple. Yet, for me it works. I have known depression. Oh, yes I have known depression. I was a cutter. A cutter is a self-mutilator. I cut myself. I hurt myself for many reasons, which I do not care to write about at this time. My point is I know depression. I lived in it for years. Today, when I start to slip into depression I fight back. I wish I could become free, from depression but I cannot. I still suffer from the turbulence, at times. However, I have learned how to do combat with Satan and my thoughts. I am sure God loves me and I love me. I even love others to some extent.

If you are suffering from depression, try to change what you think. It is ok to call someone and ask for help. If you need professional help don't hesitate to make a phone call. If you are suicidal call 911 now. I promise life will get better but you have to take some action.


Related Tags: depression, faith, self talk, cognitive, reconstruction

Dr Bob Wilkerson is founder of Challenger Christian Ministries, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping others recover from life altering circumstances. Dr. Bob is a motivational speaker with true life story of God's power to change any individuals life. If your Church or organization is looking for a dynamic speaker please email him today. challenger7777@gmail.com

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