Bible Verse for January 17th.

Why am I so discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will
praise Him again- my Saviour and my God!
Psalm 42:5
NLT Bible

Many people go through periods of depression and despair and feel that life holds no
meaning for them anymore. Loneliness, rejection, lack of self worth, an inability to cope,
loss of a loved one can cause someone to slip into a state of depression. Sadness and lack
of interest in life becomes the norm. As children of God, we are not immune from this
and if we are not careful, it becomes easy to be depressed when we encounter difficulties
in our lives.
For those who feel depressed, it is important to look to God, to trust Him, to cast your
cares upon Him knowing that He cares for you. We need to spend time in fellowship with
God, telling him about our deepest pain, knowing that He understands and desires to see
us whole and happy. We also need to read God's Word, because in it we find the hope
needed for a brighter tomorrow. There are also some practical things we can do to lift our
spirits. We should take care of our bodies, keep ourselves busy helping others, spend time
with people who care about us, get up each day and tell ourselves that with God's help,
today will be a good day and if needed, seek counselling. We must cling to Jesus because
in Him, we can find the rest, peace and joy needed to move us out of our state of despair
and despondency.
Thank you Lord that I can come to You with all my cares, secure in the knowledge that
You care for me. When I feel sad and depressed, and everything seems to be an effort,
restore laughter and joy to my life. I know You have plans for me and that with Your
help, I will be an overcomer. I love you Jesus. Amen!

Be Blessed!
Lydia