A brief bible study slide presentation on the subject of depression (God's Power is Limitless to Help and Heal).

1. Lesson Three
DEPRESSION
©2009 Queen E. F. Phillips

2. Present biblical principles for practical living

 Inspire, enable and empower others through
the “inspired” Word of God (the Bible)
 Enhance your Christian walk of faith by
studying and learning from biblical
characters with challenges common to
mankind.
 Point others to the saving grace and
knowledge of Jesus Christ.

3. God’s Power is Limitless
To Help and Heal
Summar y and Introduction
Anxiety Fe a r
 
Anger Fr u s t r at i o n
 
Depression Pow e r l e s s n e s s
 
Disclaimer: The lessons, information, and links at this site are intended for
biblical teaching and educational purposes and should not be
construed as medical advice or instruction. In no way are any of these
teachings meant to be a substitute for professional medical care or
counseling.
Text: God's Power to Help Hurting People, Publisher: Urban Ministries (c)2003; Editor: Dr. Colleen Birchett;
(c)2009 Queen Phillips, Majestic Worldwide Ministries, Inc.

4. Scriptural Basis & Introduction
In John 16:33 Jesus said, “I have told you these things, so that in Me
you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you
have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of
good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain,
undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of
power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]” (AMP)
There’s absolutely nothing that can overtake us if we put our TOTAL trust
and confidence in Him and obey the Word.
Consequently, these lessons are designed to teach you how to embrace
the power of God that’s available in the Person of the Holy Spirit. He will
empower you to handle and overcome anxiety, anger, depression,
frustration, and feeling powerless during this economic downturn.
The truth is what Jesus told His disciples over 2000 years ago are applicable
today. Do you believe it? Do you want help? Would like to experience
the compassion of the One who created you in His image and likeness?
If so, you’re at a good place to begin the healing process. We’ll focus on
six (6) emotions that are most common during stressful and challenging
times. It is my prayer that you receive the encouragement for which this
series is purposed.

5. What is Depression?
According to MediLexicon's Medical Dictionary, depression is quot;a
mental state or chronic mental disorder characterized by feelings
of sadness, loneliness, despair, low self-esteem, and self-
reproach.
Identifying Causes
Causes could be biological or emotional. Any of life’s
challenges, major events and activities can trigger
Depression, i.e., abuse, medications, conflicts, death,
serious illness/terminal diseases, substance abuse, divorce,
personal problems and challenges, and genetics.

6. Depression has become a prevalent mental disease in
our world today. No one is immune from its attack. It does not
discriminate on the basis of race, religion, nationality, age or
sex. Millions are affected. Yet, there is hope.
Although many may already be suffering from depression, a
major trigger is our current economic situation . This is what
prompted MWwM to launch this bible study series to provide
help and hope to the many individuals and families that are
deeply affected by depression.
Ironically, depression is not a new illness; it’s ancient. In fact, it
affected persons in the bible long before Christ. We can learn
how to overcome it by the power of God’s word, if you would
believe and receive God’s word like a “medicine” into your
mind, body and soul (spirit).

7. Depression zaps a person’s energy and take a
great deal of time out of one’s life. It’s affects
become more intensive as the depression deepens.
A person becomes more withdrawn and it becomes
more difficult for others to communicate with the
individual. Consequently, if the person’s mental
state does not change, the person can lose the
desire to face reality, or continue living. At this
point, the “spirit” of depression has taken full
control. But, nothing is impossible for the
All-powerful One to overcome.

8. Common Symptoms
Most Common:
Emotional

Depression, also
Major
› Feeling sad and hopeless
known as clinical
› Irritable and anxious
depression
› Loss of interest in what you
Depression, used to enjoy
Chronic
also know dysthymia › Guilt, and shame
› Death & suicidal thoughts
Depression, also
Manic
Physical

known as bipolar
› Headache & Back pain
(disorder) depression
› Appetite / weight change
Depression,
Seasonal
› Sleeping problems
also known as SAD
› Chest pain & Joint aches
(Seasonal Affective
› Digestive problems
Disorder)
› Extreme fatigue

9. Biblical Examples
Job, Jonah, Jeremiah, Elijah, David, Judas Iscariot.
Job’s depression was caused by a calamity of events, sickness,
death of his children, loss all of his possessions, and friends that
questioned his character (Job 17:1-16).
Jeremiah’s depression is notable in the Book of Lamentation because
of his opposition and the rebellion of God’ s people.
Elijah became depressed after his Mt. Carmel victory, which enraged
Jezebel and he began feeling all alone and wanted to die (I Kings 19:1-5)
David- gets depressed because he is overwhelmed by constant
harassment from his enemies (Ps. 143).

10. Biblical Methods to Help Overcome Depression
Talk it Out” – being able to talk to yourself, God, or someone
else (preferably a counselor).
Journal it Out- writing can be a form of expression and
therapeutic for depression before it intensifies. I encourage
people to journal.
Pray it Through – Seek the Lord’s help by talking to
God, believing and trusting that He hears you and will intervene by
rescuing your soul from the “spirit” of depression. Pour out your
soul to Him! Read the Gospels how Jesus prayed as it was time to
be crucified; depression was upon him (Matt. 26:36-38)
Praise & Worship- David was a praiser and a worshiper. Praise
is what he did. So when nothing worked; he praised; he song; he
played his harp. (READ THE BOOK OF PSALMS)
***In no way are these meant to be substitutes for professional
counseling and care. ***

11. 1. Meditate on Psalms 41:1-13; 42:1-11. What
similarities are there that suggest
depression?
2. Consider your life; do you recognize
symptoms of depression? If so, how are you
handling?
3. Biblical examples show us that even
Christians can get depressed. From the
biblical examples, how did they deal with
their depression?
4. Who in the New Testament suffered major
depression to the point of suicide? Why?

12. PRAYER:
Father, thank you for being concerned about every area of
my life because it’s your desire for me to in peace and
abundance here on Earth. I need you to help me. I confess
that I am subject to becoming depressed; therefore, I’m
asking that you give me the strength to overcome it in my life
and the life of my family. I refuse to allow the spirit of
depression to overtake me or my family in Jesus’ name. I will
arise with fresh excitement and a fresh zeal for life. I
surrender my all to you, and trust your sovereignty to handle
life’s challenges for my good, even when it appears the worst
is happening. I will meditate on your word; believe and
receive your power and unconditional love, grace and mercy
to carry me and my families through any situation. Thank
you, Father. In Jesus’ name. Amen

13. (Disclaimer: These are only resource links for your convenience. I
am not affiliated with these organizations or business entities, and
cannot be held liable for their content. The information/content on
the websites or books does not necessarily represent the views or
beliefs of Majestic Worldwide Ministries, Inc.
http://health.yahoo.com/depression-videos/what-is-
depression/healthination--HNB10281_depression_1.html
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/8933.php
http://www.hartinstitute.com
http://www.aacc.net