Depression is described as a lowered frequency of adjustive responses to daily life. Compared to a normal person’s responses to life, the depressed person’s responses are fewer and slower. The depressed person’s repertoire is also a passive one and it is marked by the effort to avoid or escape any uncomfortable or aversive social consequences.
Concealing sin often leads to depression. If you confess your sins and turn from them you will find mercy; Pro: 28:13. Biblical Example: Cain’s depression was due to guilt: Gen: 4:6-7. Cain began badly by presenting a sinful offering before God. When God rejected the offering, Cain complicated the problem by responding wrongly to the rejection. He became angry and depressed and his face fell. The anger and depression were addressed by God, who warned against the consequences of this wrong response. God graciously explained: “If you do right, you feel right.” Vs: 6-7. God also warned Cain that the failure to repent and offer the right kind of sacrifice would continue to complicate the problem and would cause him to fall into deeper sin. Clutches of sin is like a wild animal crouching at the door anxiously waiting to devour him that is destroy him.
God offered hope to Cain by saying that he could reverse the spiral and rule over sin by breaking out of the sinful pattern through repentance and subsequent change of behaviour. Sin leads to guilt and depression, sinful handling of sin further complicates the matter leading to greater guilt and deeper depression, ad infinitum. Cain’s anger turns into hate and murder; Gen: 4:3-8; 4:4; 8. His sinful behaviour leads to sinful responses further and he did not repent at all.
Fear leads to depression. God dealt with Elijah in 1 King 19:1-10; “A still small voice”: Elijah escapes from Jezebel, and he was tired and weary; God gave him sleep, fed him and strengthened him and ministered unto him for Elijah’s next mission. Lack of nutrition can also be an overlooked cause of depressive symptoms, and laboratory tests can identify any vitamin deficiencies. Emotional distress interferes with the proper absorption of vitamins, minerals and amino acids, which in turn can alter the availability of neurotransmitters. Brandt (1988, p.247-266) offers a guide to vitamins and food supplements that may assist one in over coming depression.1 Proper nutrition provides the natural manufacturing of essential neurotransmitters. The way out of depression caused by guilt is confession and seeking God’s forgiveness. Ps: 32:5; Ps: 32:1-2, 11.
Observe Cain’s language here at Gen 4: 1-15; (Cain murders Abel) there were additional sinful responses. Cain pleaded not guilty and adds rebellion to his sin. He endeavours to cover a deliberate murder with a deliberate lie; and the devil was working as a murderer and liar in Cain from the beginning. It is shocking for me to even think, Cain even thought for a minute he could conceal his sins from a Holy God, who sees all things. Gen 4:11-15, describes Cain’s dialogue with God and because of his sinful response and guilt, Cain sees the whole creation armed against him.
It is important to check our life patterns and issues of our heart on regular basis. For example:
1. Check the complicating problems (letting down on chores: ironing, house keeping, tasks at one’s business, etc.). One should tackle this God’s way.
2. Check all factors (incidents etc...) which would have led to the sinful behaviour initially and take Biblical action by the power of the Holy Spirit to replace patterns. (Put off/ put on)
After explaining dynamics of depression, set out to attack the sinful tendencies of the human heart that would surrender to feelings rather than follow the path of Christian responsibility. The Biblical counsellor or a Pastor who is matured in Christ is in a unique position to assist depressed persons in the congregation in fighting off the debilitating guilt that often accompanies depression.
Scriptures for help: David was very depressed until he confessed his sin adultery; Ps: 32:3-4. Put your hope in God when you are downcast; Ps: 42. Words of comfort were given to faithful Israel as they became depressed while in Babylon. They were called to put their faith into action in their dark hour; Is: 40. We may experience some tough situations, but we can avoid deep depression by focusing on God and His Word; 2 Cori: 4:8-9; 16-.18. Think of Paul what he went through, without getting depressed, sustained by God’s grace; 2 Cor: 11:23-28. The Word of God must be carefully selected, accurately interpreted, rigorously applied, and effectively implemented to a counselee’s situation with the power of the Holy Spirit.
Depression and mood disorders can be divided into: major depression, bipolar disorder, dysthymic disorder, and also cyclothymic disorder as the primary disorders of mood. Major depression, also called unipolar depression, is identified by sad, empty, or hopeless feelings; slowed physical and cognitive behaviour, including cognitive disorientation; change in weight, appetite and sleeping patterns; diminished interest or pleasure in activities and time spend with friends; and occasional to frequent thoughts of death and suicide. The presence of several of these symptoms for a period of exceeding two or more weeks is a symptom and sufficient criteria for a major depressive episode. Referrals for Medical professional help can be very helpful in such cases.
In this article the focus is on 'non-organic illnesses' which needs to be addressed in an early stage and it is much easier to ignore these issues. Prolonged guilt, fear, anxiety, bitterness, hatred and resentment can take anyone in a deep down ward spiral which can lead to depression and hopelessness and despair. If the depression has its roots in helplessness and hopelessness, the Biblical counseling surely is a messenger of hope.
Notes:
1. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999, p.339)
References:
1. John G. Kruis, ‘Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling’; (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, Third edition: 1988, 1994, 2000, p.60-61)
2. Jay E. Adams, “The Christian Counselor’s Manual”; ‘The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973, P.200, 278, 283, 292, 375-383)
3. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling” (Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1994, p.104)
4. Gary L. Almy, M.D., ‘How Christian is Christian Counseling?’ The Dangerous Secular Influences That Keep Us From Caring For Souls, (Illinois: Crossway Books, Good News Publishers, 2000, p. 305-318; 197-219)
5. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002, p.152-153)
6. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999, p. 335-340; 534-536)
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Competent to Counsel; ‘Introduction to Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1970, P.144-148)
8. The Mathew Henry Study Bible, ‘The best of Mathew Henry’s notes in a Handy one volume, Reference Bible, King James Version, Kenneth Abraham, General Editor,(Iowa Falls, World Wide Publishers, Inc, 1994, 1997, p. 13-15)
Website References:
1.Major depression
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
Depression may be described as feeling sad, blue, unhappy, miserable, or down in the dumps. Most of us feel this way at one time or another for short periods. True clinical depression is a mood disorder in which feelings of...Causes - Symptoms - Tests - Treatment - Prognosis - Complications - Prevention
2.Major depressive disorder - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Major_depressive_disorderCached - Similar
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Major depressive disorder (MDD) (also known as recurrent depressive disorder, clinical depression, major depression, unipolar depression, or unipolar ...Symptoms and signs - Causes - Diagnosis - Prevention
3.Depression (mood) - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Depression_(mood)Cached - Similar
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Depression is a state of low mood and aversion to activity that can affect a person's thoughts, behaviour, feelings and physical well-being. Depressed people ...
4.Depression
www.cmha.ca/bins/content_page.asp?cid=3-86-87Cached - Similar
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Depression. Problems and misfortunes are a part of life. Everyone experiences unhappiness, and many people may become depressed temporarily when things ...
5.Understanding Depression: Signs, Symptoms, Causes, and Help
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Learn about depression, including the signs and symptoms, causes, and the many ways to help yourself or someone you care about.
6.Depression Hurts
www.depressionhurts.ca/Similar
Concealing sin often leads to depression. If you confess your sins and turn from them you will find mercy; Pro: 28:13. Biblical Example: Cain’s depression was due to guilt: Gen: 4:6-7. Cain began badly by presenting a sinful offering before God. When God rejected the offering, Cain complicated the problem by responding wrongly to the rejection. He became angry and depressed and his face fell. The anger and depression were addressed by God, who warned against the consequences of this wrong response. God graciously explained: “If you do right, you feel right.” Vs: 6-7. God also warned Cain that the failure to repent and offer the right kind of sacrifice would continue to complicate the problem and would cause him to fall into deeper sin. Clutches of sin is like a wild animal crouching at the door anxiously waiting to devour him that is destroy him.
God offered hope to Cain by saying that he could reverse the spiral and rule over sin by breaking out of the sinful pattern through repentance and subsequent change of behaviour. Sin leads to guilt and depression, sinful handling of sin further complicates the matter leading to greater guilt and deeper depression, ad infinitum. Cain’s anger turns into hate and murder; Gen: 4:3-8; 4:4; 8. His sinful behaviour leads to sinful responses further and he did not repent at all.
Fear leads to depression. God dealt with Elijah in 1 King 19:1-10; “A still small voice”: Elijah escapes from Jezebel, and he was tired and weary; God gave him sleep, fed him and strengthened him and ministered unto him for Elijah’s next mission. Lack of nutrition can also be an overlooked cause of depressive symptoms, and laboratory tests can identify any vitamin deficiencies. Emotional distress interferes with the proper absorption of vitamins, minerals and amino acids, which in turn can alter the availability of neurotransmitters. Brandt (1988, p.247-266) offers a guide to vitamins and food supplements that may assist one in over coming depression.1 Proper nutrition provides the natural manufacturing of essential neurotransmitters. The way out of depression caused by guilt is confession and seeking God’s forgiveness. Ps: 32:5; Ps: 32:1-2, 11.
Observe Cain’s language here at Gen 4: 1-15; (Cain murders Abel) there were additional sinful responses. Cain pleaded not guilty and adds rebellion to his sin. He endeavours to cover a deliberate murder with a deliberate lie; and the devil was working as a murderer and liar in Cain from the beginning. It is shocking for me to even think, Cain even thought for a minute he could conceal his sins from a Holy God, who sees all things. Gen 4:11-15, describes Cain’s dialogue with God and because of his sinful response and guilt, Cain sees the whole creation armed against him.
It is important to check our life patterns and issues of our heart on regular basis. For example:
1. Check the complicating problems (letting down on chores: ironing, house keeping, tasks at one’s business, etc.). One should tackle this God’s way.
2. Check all factors (incidents etc...) which would have led to the sinful behaviour initially and take Biblical action by the power of the Holy Spirit to replace patterns. (Put off/ put on)
After explaining dynamics of depression, set out to attack the sinful tendencies of the human heart that would surrender to feelings rather than follow the path of Christian responsibility. The Biblical counsellor or a Pastor who is matured in Christ is in a unique position to assist depressed persons in the congregation in fighting off the debilitating guilt that often accompanies depression.
Scriptures for help: David was very depressed until he confessed his sin adultery; Ps: 32:3-4. Put your hope in God when you are downcast; Ps: 42. Words of comfort were given to faithful Israel as they became depressed while in Babylon. They were called to put their faith into action in their dark hour; Is: 40. We may experience some tough situations, but we can avoid deep depression by focusing on God and His Word; 2 Cori: 4:8-9; 16-.18. Think of Paul what he went through, without getting depressed, sustained by God’s grace; 2 Cor: 11:23-28. The Word of God must be carefully selected, accurately interpreted, rigorously applied, and effectively implemented to a counselee’s situation with the power of the Holy Spirit.
Depression and mood disorders can be divided into: major depression, bipolar disorder, dysthymic disorder, and also cyclothymic disorder as the primary disorders of mood. Major depression, also called unipolar depression, is identified by sad, empty, or hopeless feelings; slowed physical and cognitive behaviour, including cognitive disorientation; change in weight, appetite and sleeping patterns; diminished interest or pleasure in activities and time spend with friends; and occasional to frequent thoughts of death and suicide. The presence of several of these symptoms for a period of exceeding two or more weeks is a symptom and sufficient criteria for a major depressive episode. Referrals for Medical professional help can be very helpful in such cases.
In this article the focus is on 'non-organic illnesses' which needs to be addressed in an early stage and it is much easier to ignore these issues. Prolonged guilt, fear, anxiety, bitterness, hatred and resentment can take anyone in a deep down ward spiral which can lead to depression and hopelessness and despair. If the depression has its roots in helplessness and hopelessness, the Biblical counseling surely is a messenger of hope.
Notes:
1. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999, p.339)
References:
1. John G. Kruis, ‘Quick Scripture Reference for Counseling’; (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, Third edition: 1988, 1994, 2000, p.60-61)
2. Jay E. Adams, “The Christian Counselor’s Manual”; ‘The Practice of Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1973, P.200, 278, 283, 292, 375-383)
3. John F. MacArthur, JR. Wayne A. Mack & The Master’s College Faculty, ‘Introduction To Biblical Counseling, “A Basic Guide To The Principles And Practice Of Counseling” (Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers, 1994, p.104)
4. Gary L. Almy, M.D., ‘How Christian is Christian Counseling?’ The Dangerous Secular Influences That Keep Us From Caring For Souls, (Illinois: Crossway Books, Good News Publishers, 2000, p. 305-318; 197-219)
5. Jay E. Adams, ‘Critical Stages of Biblical Counseling’ Finishing Well, Breaking Through, Getting Started, (New Jersey: Zondervan, 2002, p.152-153)
6. David G. Benner & Peter C. Hill, ‘Baker Encyclopaedia of Psychology & Counseling’ Second Edition, (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1985, 1999, p. 335-340; 534-536)
7. Jay E. Adams, ‘Competent to Counsel; ‘Introduction to Nouthetic Counseling’ (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1970, P.144-148)
8. The Mathew Henry Study Bible, ‘The best of Mathew Henry’s notes in a Handy one volume, Reference Bible, King James Version, Kenneth Abraham, General Editor,(Iowa Falls, World Wide Publishers, Inc, 1994, 1997, p. 13-15)
Website References:
1.Major depression
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
Depression may be described as feeling sad, blue, unhappy, miserable, or down in the dumps. Most of us feel this way at one time or another for short periods. True clinical depression is a mood disorder in which feelings of...Causes - Symptoms - Tests - Treatment - Prognosis - Complications - Prevention
2.Major depressive disorder - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Major_depressive_disorderCached - Similar
You +1'd this publicly. Undo
Major depressive disorder (MDD) (also known as recurrent depressive disorder, clinical depression, major depression, unipolar depression, or unipolar ...Symptoms and signs - Causes - Diagnosis - Prevention
3.Depression (mood) - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Depression_(mood)Cached - Similar
You +1'd this publicly. Undo
Depression is a state of low mood and aversion to activity that can affect a person's thoughts, behaviour, feelings and physical well-being. Depressed people ...
4.Depression
www.cmha.ca/bins/content_page.asp?cid=3-86-87Cached - Similar
You +1'd this publicly. Undo
Depression. Problems and misfortunes are a part of life. Everyone experiences unhappiness, and many people may become depressed temporarily when things ...
5.Understanding Depression: Signs, Symptoms, Causes, and Help
helpguide.org/.../depression_signs_types_diagnosis_treatment.htmCached
You +1'd this publicly. Undo
Learn about depression, including the signs and symptoms, causes, and the many ways to help yourself or someone you care about.
6.Depression Hurts
www.depressionhurts.ca/Similar
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