The Struggle is Real, “Battling Depression”
January 15, 2023

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Message Review

Depression is one of the most common mental health struggles, in fact, many studies are now saying that depression is the #1 Mental Health struggle in the world today. It is ok to not be ok but don’t be not okay alone. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a sign of wisdom. Depression is closely related to toxic thought process call rumination, which is repetitively dwelling on negative thoughts and feelings. To break the cycle, you must focus on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely admirable and whatever is praiseworthy think about these things.  

Main Point | Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of wisdom. 

Scripture References | Philippians 4:8; Psalm 34:17-18; Psalm 40:1-2; Isaiah 26:3 

Questions      

  • Pastor Jimmy talked about his shirt that he got as a gift from Pastor Nick. What is the most memorable gift you have received from a friend?  

  • Why do you think Depression isn’t openly talked about in the church? What can be done to change this narrative?  

  • Pastor Jimmy said that 2 out of every 3 people struggling with depression or anxiety, don’t seek help or receive treatment for their condition. Why is that? 

  • Read Psalm 40: 1-2. What words or phrases stick out to each of you? Why?  

  • Pastor Jimmy spoke about Rumination which is repetitive thinking or dwelling on negative feelings or thoughts. How can you break this pattern? 

  • Read Philippians 4:8. What are examples of things you can focus on to fill your mind with what is right? 

  • Pastor Jimmy talked about worshipping until hope finds you, what is one of your favorite worship songs that always takes you to the foot of the cross?  

  • What are ways that we can walk with each other when we are going through the pit of depression. How can we be there for each other?  

Challenge Question | What do you need to do to interrupt the cycle of negative thoughts and change your thinking to point towards Jesus?  

Application

First if you are amid depression and trying to walk through it alone, tell someone and let other you love you help walk with you. Also is what you’re filling your mind daily helping dwell on the negatives of life or what is life giving. This week dwell on Philippians 4:8 and put things in place that will allow you to focus on what is life giving this week.    

Verse to Remember: Philippians 4:8- 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 

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