Depression: A Dark Stubborn Companion

Speaker: Toby Soechting

Scripture: 1 Kings 19:1-8

INTRODUCTION:

1. Elijah is one of those Bible characters who clearly experienced the thrill of victory, and the agony of defeat (Cf. 1 Ki. 18).
2. One spectacular victory does not ensure a person will be able to handle every obstacle that life presents.

DISCUSSION:

I.      SYMPTOMS

1.  In the face of threats and criticism, Elijah withdrew (v. 9).
2. Elijah even gave thought to suicide.
3. He developed a pitiful view of himself (vv.10, 14).
4. Elijah slept (v. 5).

II.     SOLUTIONS

1. Meet the problem face to face (v. 9), instead of exerting your energy in retreat (i.e. withdrawal).
2. Draw near to God (cf. Jas. 4:8; Psa. 119:105).
3. Focus somewhere else besides yourself (vv. 15-16).
4. Depend upon your real friends (v.21).

CONCLUSION :  Elijah was not a man without obstacles in life, and amidst them, even though a man of God, he battled the dark and stubborn condition of depression.  In the end, with God’s help, Elijah overcame.  If we depend upon God’s wisdom, we too can overcome stubborn obstacles in life.

Depression: A Dark Stubborn Companion