By Bob Bennett
Christians who are experiencing depression MUST be handled very gently and tenderly.
They have been exposed to countless, negative abuse and circumstances over the majority of their lifetime.Much of this abuse was directed specifically at them. Much of this abuse was telling them they are worthless, good for nothing, will never amount to anything, and it would be better if they were never born.
Can you imagine living under that type of bondage for decades? Often this abuse occurred from parents while they were growing up. Imagine living in this environment as a child?
That’s why the sensitivity in dealing with depressed Christians must be adhered to. Ministering to depressed Christians must make one aware how fragile they are.
That’s why simple one word answers or phrases DO NOT WORK.
Years of mental abuse will not change overnight. Years of negative thoughts must be replaced with constant positive thoughts – especially WHO GOD SAYS THEY ARE. The Bible calls it the “renewing of the mind” and ONLY the Holy Spirit can renew one’s mind so they can see life through God’s eyes. That’s why it takes time. Their recovery and healing cannot be rushed.
Depressed Christians need to see their worth through the eyes of Jesus Christ. That’s the only way it will work. JESUS IN THEM will do it. Jesus will show them they are worth it, special, and never a mistake.
CHRIST IN YOU is what eventually freed me from many years of depression. Jesus wants to root His love deeper into each person. First though, the pain, scars, thorns, dirt, etc. must first be removed. Then the love of Christ will flow out more naturally.
The Holy Spirit will mostly renew the mind of a depressed Christian through the Word of God. That is a must for every depressed Christian to be reading and meditating every day – specifically the New Testament and the Gospels that show the personal, intimate love God has for them.
And to specifically see that JESUS LIVES IN YOU 24/7 & WILL NEVER LEAVE.
It takes time since it is a growth process. Don’t rush your healing. Be patient with yourself. I am glad I can help in anyway possible.
CHRIST IN YOU is your solution and victory.
For those ministering and encouraging depressed Christians, just be there for them. Pray for them. Encourage them. Don’t force immediate faith solutions on them. Their deep pain cannot come out all at once. Be a great friend to them to always be by their side.
At the same time, use wisdom. Don’t enable depressed Christians. Don’t let them take advantage of your goodness and help. Instead, point them directly to Jesus and for them to be alone with Him in His Word. The Holy Spirit must do the work in them.
Bob Bennett is the Director at Victory Over Depression ministries. Read more of his blogs at https://victoryoverdepression.wordpress.com
