Is this you? Do you feel anxious, worried, or even depressed? None of us can escape these feelings at different times in our lives because we are dealing with our own personal sins as well as the sins of others. And as times grow closer to Jesus' return, we all may experience these emotions even more.
It is no fun to be in a state of depression and anxiousness. We all walk through the spiritual battles everyday where satan tries to lure us into a pit of confusion, depression, anger, self-pity, you name it. He wants us to get our focus off of Christ. We must call upon Christ to help us overcome these battles within our minds by clinging to His Word, focusing on His goodness, being thankful, and turning to resources such as this book suggested by our pastor, Answer to Anxiety by Herman W. Gockel, D. D. I have only read a small section our pastor had copied from the book written by this LCMS pastor and thought it to be very encouraging and helpful. It can be ordered off of Amazon (Concordia Publishing House was the publisher but no longer sells the book.). It is an excellent book to read not only for ourselves (as parents :) ) but for our teens who face ENORMOUS challenges and trials in today's world. We must remember though: "He who has begun a good work in you will carry it on to completion in the day of Christ Jesus." Phil. 1:6 He is faithful and will be with us each step of the way.
8 comments:
Can I humbly and hesitantly ask you if you ever think medication can be a God-given resource to help us deal with depression and anxiety?
No problem Barb, I don't mind you ask-
ing. I believe that it is okay to use medication for depression if that is how God is leading someone to deal with his/her depression. However, good and solid Christian counseling is also important to have along with the medication. I was on medication for about 8 months when things were the toughest for us, and of course, we were going through counseling as well. I finally came to a point where I didn't need it anymore. I am thankful that I did have that resource to help me through those really hard times of our reconciliation process. It is very important to not use it as a crutch though and get to the root of the depression.
Another wonderful resource is "Letters of Spiritual Counsel" by Martin Luther.
My own personal opinion is that pills aren't the answer. I don't know if they are ever the answer. I am very concerned about "Generation Rx." I put much stock in old fashioned advice such as healthy diet, exercise, fresh air, good friends and helping others.
HappyAnniversary Lucy. I didn't know that Scottius is your husband. I've been reading his blog off and on for a long time and find it very amusing. It's wonderful to be married to someone who can make you laugh. : )
I have this book, too.
Hi TK! You have the Martin Luther book?
If so, what do you think of it? I would think it would be very good. Thanks!
"Hi TK! You have the Martin Luther book...I would think it would be very good..."
What?!! Do you honestly think a book by Luther would stink?!!
Okay dear!:) Yes, I made a another goofy comment; however,I have thought about it a little more since making that comment! There is the possibility that He could have written it during the transitional period of the Reformation (when he was first starting to break away from the Catholic church). Don't you remember Pastor saying that his theology was not totally grounded at that time? It it was written later on then it should have been good.
One other thought - I thought TK meant the Martin Luther book, but she could have been referring to the Gockel book! We await her response! :)
Appreciate this blogg post
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