Best Of: Battling Discouragement And Depression With . . .

posted by Paula Hendricks on 01/18/13 | Twitter: @PaulaWrites678
Category: Myself; ; 61 comments

From the LYWB.com team: It's our fifth birthday here on the blog. To celebrate we are featuring the "best of" the blog all month. This post on dealing with discouragement got you talking. With 103 comments, clearly this is a post that mattered to many.

Does Scripture memory sound like "just another thing to do" on an already overwhelming to-do list? What if you learned it was one of the greatest weapons you have to battle discouragement and depression in your life? Would that interest you a bit more? remember

I find it intriguing that when Nancy Leigh DeMoss (co-author of Lies Young Women Believe) comes across someone who is feeling discouraged or depressed—including me—she often asks them two questions: "Are you singing to the Lord?" and "Are you memorizing Scripture?"

In her words:

These two exercises are not some magical formula to make all your problems go away, but they do have incredible power to change your perspective and attitude toward the issues you are facing.

That said, I'm excited to invite you to memorize some Scripture with us this month! We're memorizing Psalm 139:13–16.

I admit, I've gotten a head start, and these verses have been a lifeline the past month or so.

When I'm feeling frustrated by my intense personality and crazy emotions, I remind myself that I am fearfully and wonderfully made (v. 14).
And when I'm worrying about what the future holds, I remember that "in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them" (v. 16).

And that's really just the tip of the iceberg. Don't take my word for it, though—open the Word and personalize these truths for yourself. They will offer hope and help to you over and over again! Promise.

So are you in? If so, would you leave a comment below? It doesn't need to be long—you can just say, "I'm in!"

PS: As a recovering perfectionist, I feel the need to state the obvious. Any bit of memorizing—or even just reading—is better than none at all. If you memorize just one verse this month, you're not a failure! Instead, you have one more verse in your weaponry as you battle stray emotions and discouraging circumstances. (Whew, glad we got that cleared up!)

Comments

HEY, GIRLS! We love hearing from you, but feel limited in the ways we can help. For one thing, we’re not trained counselors. If you’re seeking counsel, we encourage you to talk to your pastor or a godly woman in your life as they’ll know more details and can provide you with ongoing accountability and help. Also, the following comments do not necessarily reflect the views of Revive Our Hearts. We reserve the right to remove comments which might be unhelpful, unsuitable, or inappropriate.

Person

Re:
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 1:43 am

Pssshhh, Yea! I'm totally in, thanks for the challenge!!!

PS Jer 29:11 Is my go to verse if anyone else needs some more "backup" (;

Kara

Re:
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 1:54 am

I have been struggling with depression for the past 6 years (though have never been actually diagnosed). My parents have always said that theres nothing wrong with me and thus see no need to take me in to get me checked out, but I know theres something off with me. Its at the point right now where its getting really bad, and I'm feeling very lost, alone, confused,overwhelmed and so many other things...

I'm at a loss for what to do to help overcome it or even just be able to control it a little bit without medication. Any suggestions?

P.S. I'm in! and another verse that helps me sometimes is Joshua 1:9

Lydia

Stay strong!
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 2:15 am

I care so much and I am so sorry you have such a hardship in your life. I suggest pray a lot (because God can fix ANYTHING) and maybe try medications with permission with your parents. If you think you have depression, get through to them. As your parents they should understand.

God bless you, and praying for ya! <3

Dee

So in
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 3:01 am

Yes am so innnnn..that particular verses keeps skipping my mind..but am so sure this time around..it aint going no where

Rosalyn Courtney

discouragement and depression
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 3:29 am

RE:kara you are not alone, GOD is more than able to heal you.But please talk to your parents to receive the proper help.Here are my go to scriptures that i speak over my mind during difficult times.The Word has power. EPH 6;10-17,2 TIM1;7

personal loans

Re:
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 5:22 am

When you're in the corner and have got no money to get out from that point, you would need to receive the home loans. Because that would help you for sure. I take student loan every time I need and feel fine just because of it.

Songs
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 6:55 am

One of my favorite songs at the moment is Worn by Tenth Avenue North. Whenever I'm feeling upset or overwhelmed I love to sing this song. It helps me explain to God what I'm feeling and I know he cares about what I'm going through.
1 Peter 5:7

I'm in
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 7:35 am

I'm so in.. but lately ive been struggling in reading the scripture and praying.. i feel so lost.. and frustrated all the time. i know what i have to do but i cant will myself of doing it. i really hate whats happening to me right now. i felt like i am being drag away.. but i do go to church every week and to our other activities. its just that i felt something is wrong right now.

btw thanks for the post.
reading the blogs here somehow help me to walk in the right path.
God bless you guys.

.
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 7:47 am

I am in!

Kylie

I'm in
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 8:17 am

Thanks so much!
Over the past few weeks I have been struggling with my self worth. I try so hard to be perfect and when I fail I get discouraged and angry. I know that I need to rely on God but being a "do it yourself perfectionist" keeps holding me down.
Ill be memorizing right along with you girls!

Grace

Re:
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 8:21 am

OK, I'm in!

Samantha

Re:
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 9:48 am

I am totally in.

Kaylee S. Smith

@ Kara; @RK; & I'm In!
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 10:26 am

@ Kara - Hey, girl! My heart goes out to you in this time where you are feeling lost and confused. My mother has also struggled with depression for a long time. But she recently 'got out of it', for lack of better word. She prayed to God with a persistent heart, and she finally felt the presence of God; something she said she hasn't felt in a really long time. And after that moment, she was a totally new person! She is all happy and exited now - something I haven't seen in the past 14 years or so. What I'm trying to say is, without having time with God, one can start to feel the burden of life on their shoulders; weighing them down. "For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” - Matthew 11:30. When one spends time with God, one starts to feel more light-at-heart and their spirit starts to free. He takes the burden; whatever it may be. Even though it seems like God isn't really there sometimes, and it's hard to feel His presence or anything; remember: God IS there! He cares very deeply for you! He loves you IMMENSELY! And I care for all the girls here (including you!) - that is why I am typing this. I don't want to sound like a 'know-it-all-who-can-just-type-a-smarty-pants-response' - I just truly, with all my heart and soul, want to help you. One of the keys that I have learned so far, is that spending time with God (reading the Bible, praying, listening for His voice in your heart, etc.) is the best remedy for a broken heart, depression, bad-self-image, despair, burden from a wrong-doing, etc. He will forgive and He will heal! You just have to ask Him. You are in my prayers, Kara! God Bless! <3

@ RK - I know how you feel! My relationship with God in the past could just be phrased up with one word - 'blah'. But it doesn't have to stay that way! The two things that I did that changed my life the most were these - 1. I read a book for young women called, 'From Blah to Awe by Jenna Lucado Bishop'. It changed my faith! Literally, from blah to awe of God and His Word. 2. I forced myself, at trust me...it was a chore at first, to spend one hour with God everyday. Reading the Bible, praying, listening to sermons, staying quiet and hearing His voice in my heart, etc. And after a week or so, something unexpected happened: I actually work up in the morning and was looking forward to spending that hour with God...I thought that would NEVER happen....seriously! I just want to encourage you to check out that book by Jenna and spend that hour with God everyday, faithfully, and watch what happens! I hope to hear back from you - God Bless! (I'm praying for you) <3

Depression isn't something I struggle with particularly (thank God), but I do struggle with self-worth. I would love to memorize those verses with y'all! I'm in!

~ Kaylee S. Smith

Kat

Me too!
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 11:06 am

I'm in! Loved this post, thank y'all!

Brittany

Re:
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 11:47 am

I'm definitely in!

Tammy

Re:Kara
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 12:41 pm

Kara, hang in there sister!!! Remember that depression is one of satan's many tools he uses against us!!!! Joyce Meyer's book Battlefield of the Mind is so enlightening,i read it as new christian, and I had NO IDEA there were so many ways that I was allowing satan to keep me down!!! We just have to remember that God doesn't want us to feel those negative thoughts, so if we are having them,we just have to say to ourselves, STOP!!! Its a matter of just "getting out of our own heads"so to speak. The earlier suggestion of"singing to The Lord" is a wonderful way to do this!! God Bless you Kara!!! You are loved!!!

Betsy

I'm in
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 12:55 pm

I'm in...

I have been battling with anxiety, doing better, but sometimes it gets the best of me and I lash out on everyone cuz I can't handle so much.

I need to memorize verses and remember God's promises for my life.

Kaylee S. Smith

@ Betsy
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 1:29 pm

I will be praying for you, Betsy.

Even though I don't know you in person, I am very proud of you in spirit because you are taking action by memorizing those verses. God has a plan for you - a big one, I might add. God bless you!!

Carolyn

Re:
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 2:20 pm

I'm in!

cassi

Re:
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 3:48 pm

I'm in

Re:
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 4:40 pm

I'm in!

Ashlee

:)
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 4:56 pm

I like that "Recovering Perfectionist" bit.

Brittany

Kara
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 4:56 pm

Hey Kara, I struggle with depression, too. I'm on medication for it and have been doing better since then. Depression is nothing to let go of. Please, reach out to someone. I'll be praying for you to feel better.

Brook

Re:
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 5:02 pm

I'm in!!

Chocolate

I'm in!
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 5:24 pm

Just this afternoon I was having some depressing friend troubles. I came on this website, and it just totally applied to me in that moment!! Blessings LYWB!! You have a great ministry!
I'm in!!

Love<3

Handling Discouragement + Depression
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 10:33 pm

I have been very discouraged and depressed lately. I go to food when I'm in a bad mood :( I'm trying to make healthy choices in my food each day, but the past 2 nights I just fill up on junk food since I'm upset...it is so wrong.

Psalm 139 is such a great passage! In my English class this year, we have been working on memorizing that passage. My teacher puts about 2-3 of the verses on each test we take :) It is a very encouraging Psalm.

EmilyJ

Re:
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 11:02 pm

I LOVEEE memorizing scripture! Some of my favorites are Psalm 1:1-3, Isaiah 41:13, Hebrews 13:6, and a dozen others! The last 10 or so chapters in Psalms are awesome too... All about praising God. I like to mark the verses I have memorized with dried flower petals of different kinds(: So, I'm in!

onethatisbought

Re:Betsy
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 11:54 pm

I honestly love coming to this blog, it's so beautiful to see You all come together and I know you all keep hearing but I love you guys too. I see your posts and I just wanna hold you guys and be like "Guys! I mean Girls! lol We are so amazing in His eyes" Betsy, girl listen: I have had depression and anxiety for what feels like my whole life. I remember what its like to lash out at others cause of it and the guilt is crazy heavy from it. But you can't let your feelings, your emotions control actions. It's like, okay so I was watching Joyce Meyer's seminar for young girls (i was iffy at first but she was sensational :) And she was talking about thoughts and emotions and how they are always changing from up to do down and all around. But that we don't have to go with them. So I try to purpose with myself at the beginning of the day I say: Girl....you are just going to chill okay? Don't make any rash emotional decisions. Just because you feel something doesn't mean you do it." The heart is deceptive baby doll (Jeremiah 17:9) But God always says, and I'm paraphrasing: Your past doesnt have to define your future in Jesus Christ you have the ability and strength to resist and overcome.

My pastor actually is doing a sermon series called What Keeps You Up at Night and he said that sometimes what we think is a huge disaster is really not. He was referencing the book in which Matthew told us he and the others were in the eye of a storm and were basically flipping out. And scared like they were convinced that they were gonna die you know the waves are so high and theyre about to fall out stuff I'd say. They're scared and Jesus is just asleep. So they're yelling at him like "Don't you care that we're going to drown?! Save us! Like hello we need God, where is He?!" So Jesus says "Why are you so afraid? Where's your faith?" Then He,probably cool as can be, calms the storm. The ocean is still the wind stops. (Matthew 8:23-27) I imagine those guys were even more scared now. I know the feeling lol But the point my pastor was try to make is that often times we are like kids, we're His children. He used this metaphor He said: Once I was a lifeguard and you know I was guarding the kiddie pool and there were tons of adults around and it was so safe and I was right next to the kids. So this little girl, maybe 3 or 4 goes into the water and she's like "Help! I'm drowning" You know scared and stuff while standing in water level probably up to her knees or a bit lower. So he goes, "You are fine, dont worry about it. You're not gonna drown." Cause he figures he's got the situation in control. And he does, he's the main lifeguard, she's a little girl in a tiny pool of water. Even if she was in danger, between Him and the other trained swimmers there she's fine. So there's nothing to worry about." So maybe....we all have storms be it anxiety or fear or doubt or shame or whatever. But God is always in control, He's always there. Even what seems terryfying to us "OH Lord help I'm gonna be lost forever, I said this or did that" I think He's like.....Uh no. I've got this. Just trust me ok, you're okay. You can overcome through Christ. Calm down.

We need to see things from His perspective which I have trouble doing as well believe me. But our trip falls dont define us. We are learning through mistakes to become like Christ. And girl, honestly we all are in this together. I can see that being here and that even comforts me

Saskia

Re:
on Friday, January 18, 2013 at 11:56 pm

I am definatley in, this is such a good idea, I know this is the best of and this was written ages ago but I'm still going to do it, thanks Paula, one of the best articles I've read so far <3

Cat

Re:
on Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 2:14 am

I'm in!

Today I had to present in front of my class of mainly nonbelievers about Missionaries...I've been kind of depressed afterwards because I felt like amid my nerves and unpreparedness I forgot to mention the gospel...and almost made it seem like you had to be "good" to be saved. The focus on my project was how a true missionary is all about action, not just preaching...though I feel like I would have done it differently now...and made it clear that those good works aren't what saves you. I still spoke with lots of passion, and spoke about how Jesus was all about compassion and love...but I feel like I blew my chance. Though now I'm praying that God will use what I said to do something ,at least start conversations you know? Still, I feel depressed and like a failure. I'm afraid my classmates might of interpreted what I said wrongly.

Lately I haven't spent much time in the word, yet I expect to be a light to my classmates, guess I know what my problem is! Thanks for the reminder that I need to be in the word...and when these serious self doubt moments come, I should have scripture memorized to remind myself that I may mess up, but my God does not.

Also, who wants to join me on something in addition. Last night and this morning I ended my day and started my day telling God what I'm thankful for. Just thanks, nothing else. And I will admit, besides the self doubt I felt about my presentation...I felt a lot happier today overall! It helped me look at the little things more positively...and I hope to develop a better attitude about everything. Just making my first thought "thank you" I realize how blessed I am.

~Cat

Tell God how thankful are last thing every night and first thing every morning! <3

Kaylee S. Smith
on Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 7:59 am

hey girl thank you so much . i'll definitely check it out. Again, thanks. God bless you guys.

Abigail

Definitely!
on Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 7:01 pm

I'm in!

Saskia

Re: cat
on Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 7:28 pm

Hi cat,
First off I want to say how awesome it is that you did that, I myself want to be a missionary and my boyfriend wants to be a youth pastor with me but it takes alot of courage to be one and I myself lack that courage, this comment gave me a little boost so thank you.
I will definatley join you in talking to God morning and night it's a great idea most of us skim over when really I is something we should be doing all the time
Stay strong <3

Sarah, with the LYWB team

@Kara...
on Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 11:11 pm

I'm sorry the last 6 years have been so difficult. Do you have a godly aunt, Sunday School teacher, or youth pastor's wife that you can go to and find a place of fellowship and guidance?? Sometimes it helps to have another voice in your life to encourage you and speak to your discouragement. Also, make sure you are doing what Paula encouraged you to do...sing to the Lord and memorize Scripture. It is good medicine! Find some of your favorite songs, download them and listen to them as you go to bed each night and as you waken in the morning. Sing out loud at least one verse of each of the songs and look up to God as you do. Make it an offering to Him. Then, make it a pursuit of life to memorize Psalm 139. Repeat the verses to yourself over and over. You will be reminded again and again of the deep, personal love of the Lord for YOU individually. Be encouraged; fall in love with Him! He can indeed fill a lonely, discouraged heart. (Ps. 147:3)

Selena

THANKS
on Sunday, January 20, 2013 at 5:02 am

I´m in!

Absters

:-)
on Sunday, January 20, 2013 at 8:18 am

I'm in!

Kara

Re: Lydia, Rosaliyn, Kaylee, Tammy, Brittany, and Sarah
on Sunday, January 20, 2013 at 9:46 am

Thanks so much for the advice! I will definitely try it.

Sarah- I do have a couple women who are almost 10 years older than me who have kinda taken me under their wing. I'll talk to them.

era

Re:
on Sunday, January 20, 2013 at 10:23 am

i am so in... totally love the idea . God bless

Kelsey

Re:
on Sunday, January 20, 2013 at 1:51 pm

I'm in!!

Megan

Re: Memorization and Scripture are so important
on Sunday, January 20, 2013 at 2:37 pm

Thanks for this post! I'm not exactly depressed, but I know I've been struggling with placement and frustration with life recently.
My parents filed for divorce last year in September and it's been very hard these past months.
I've not been one of those "hold it all in" teens who never open up to people who reach out to them and want to help them, but I have been a bit to the side when it comes to social life circles (even just people at my Church). I'm definitely grateful for kind people who will talk to me without me going up to them first!
Anyways, the issues with the divorce almost finalized now and just crazy crazy life going-ons...my family needs so much prayer.
I haven't been commenting on here for awhile, but I've missed the encouragement of the girls and women on here. So glad to be able to share with you guys again after so long. :)

On the subject of memorization, I've been thinking at the back of my mind about it and how I know I need to be doing it, but this has given me the opportunity to have it back on my mind and I want to start tomorrow, memorizing this passage you've shared!

God bless!
-Serving Him

Cheyanne

Psh... I Can Do This!!!
on Sunday, January 20, 2013 at 10:38 pm

Def in.

Kids used to memorize the great Greek and Roman poems. They were gigantic. I can memorize a few verses! God's word is double edged sword :-)

Sarah, with the LYWB team

@R.K....
on Sunday, January 20, 2013 at 10:57 pm

Don't let the world, or the enemy, drag you away from the live giving source of the Word and prayer! Don't make it hard, keep it simple! Commit yourself for two weeks, to simply open your eyes in the morning and say "Good morning, Lord." Smile at Him. Then close your eyes each night with "Good night Lord. Thank you for the day." You will be surprised how it opens your heart to Him. Put your Bible out somewhere where you can keep it open, and read one or two verses out of it each morning during the two weeks. You might find Psalm 139 or 145 or 103 or 91 as great places to open to.. Let you heart be at rest and renew a love relationship with Him. He will meet you in your need. He LOVES you!

Sarah, with the LYWB team

@Kara...
on Sunday, January 20, 2013 at 11:04 pm

Great! Thanks for letting me know! God has provided you with great blessings in those women--talk with them and open your heart to them. They will consider it a great privilege to walk with you, encourage you, and help you see if you need further help. "Thank You, Lord, for this provision in Kara's life. I pray You will give her sweet comfort and encouragement through their counsel and love, and I do pray You will give her relief from these feelings of depression and loneliness. You alone, God, are the great joy giver, so please do this for my sweet friend. In Jesus' Name, Amen."

Sarah, with the LYWB team

@Megan...
on Sunday, January 20, 2013 at 11:32 pm

Welcome back! It is a delight to see you back on the blog! :-) I'm sure sorry about the frustration and sadness of the past months with the divorce. I have taken time this evening to pause and pray for your family, and for you. May the Lord's great grace and peace be upon you in these days, Megan. And may God work in ways in your family that reveal His purposes and grace. Love to you!

Anonymous Me

on Monday, January 21, 2013 at 12:08 am

Look, I'm not trying to be a downer or anything. But praying/worshipping doesn't always help a person with a pneumonia quit coughing, and praying/worshipping can't help a depressed person with all of their problems. For example, what if a person goes through times when they literally cannot do anything except stare out a window? I know at LYWB you're not psychologists or anything, but what suggestions do you have for when people have physical symptoms or they can't motivate themselves to do anything?
I really didn't mean for that last article to sound rude or sarcastic. This article is just about a sensitive topic for me and I want to know if there's anything you can do other than what you mentioned.

Sarah
on Monday, January 21, 2013 at 2:43 am

Thank you. yeah i am doing that, and i do always talk to Him, thanking Him for all the blessings, for looking after me and my love ones.
its just i do not really know what got into me, and what exactly happened that i became like this . and i really wanna change it. i missed my old self when i do not think to all of this.
btw thank u again. you are all blessings to me. God bless

Yes
on Monday, January 21, 2013 at 9:45 am

I'm in!

Christen

Those who feel helpless
on Monday, January 21, 2013 at 6:52 pm

Always look to God at all times, especially when you feel awful. Don't think only about the darkness in you, but instead dwell on the beauty of God. When you do think of your own lowliness, just think of it in perspective to "this is how much God has forgiven me!! Hallelujah for the grace and love of Jesus, my glorious Saviour!!!
Jesus is the true lovely one. Gaze upon Him and His splendor!!
Only IN CHRIST are we strong. Yes, you can now admit to yourself that, on your won, you are weak- because you know that stronger than any power is He that works and lives inside you. God takes us up into His arms and hides us in the shadow of His strength. You are strong because HE is strong.

Though we have been faithless, He is faithful. Though we fail, His purposes always stand and He rules all. And as He says, He is doing "a new thing" (Isaiah 43:19). Though we do not know what will happen in the next minute, He has seen and ordained every second of our lives. Though we "were still sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8)

Believe in the love of God, O one dearly loved and bought. You are no longer the slave of the enemy, but the daughter of the King of all creation .Fear is a form of slavery. "For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!”" (Romans 8:15). His power is FOR YOU, His love is FOR YOU.

For encouraging Christian music, I recommend Kari Jobe, Chris Tomlin, and Mandisa. I especially like You Are For Me by Kari Jobe,(and her other songs :). For books, I recommend Keep a Quiet Heart by Elisabeth Elliot

God bless you all, His beloved daughters!! Christ is right here with you. You can take him at his word when he promises to be with you always. Christ loves you more than you can ever know. Be at rest. Worrying will not help you. Just be still and breath in. Breath out. Don't trust anything Satan says, you know that he is liar who twists truths. Nothing will happen to you that God hasn't allowed. He will always do what's best for you in the end. For every trial that you meet, Christ will lead you through it with his nail-scarred hands. Christ has given so much for you, even His very self. Don't grieve Him by distrusting him and his promises. Cling to Him. He loves you so much more than you realize.

Sierra Rose

Re:
on Tuesday, January 22, 2013 at 12:43 am

I'm in! :)

Lorree, with the LYWB team

@ Anonymous Me
on Tuesday, January 22, 2013 at 4:50 pm

Thanks for asking your questions, my friend! You are right. Praying and worshiping and memorizing Scripture may not take away your depression or fix your ailments or cure you of pneumonia. But, as you do these things, your focus changes from your problems to the One who can carry you through those difficult times. Praying, worship and spending time in God’s Word causes us to look up from our difficulties. They lead us into the presence of the One who will use even the awful things in our lives for our good (Rom. 8:28-29). He may not change the situation, but He will change our hearts as we focus our attention and our efforts towards growth in our relationship with God.

One of our enemy’s most powerful tools is to use our emotions to cause us to doubt God and pull away from Him. It takes a conscious choice (and it’s often hard work) to trust Him and spend time with Him when our energy is depleted and our emotions are telling us that it won’t matter anyway. But that isn’t truth. God loves you and is there for us. When we draw near to Him, He promises He will draw near to us (Jas. 4:6-10). I’m praying for you and for those you know who are struggling, my friend!

Marissa

Re: anonymous
on Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at 11:04 pm

Hello, beautiful! Jesus loves you and he doesn't want you to hurt yourself temporarily or ultimately. Believe me. I know. There must be someone you can talk to whether it be even the school guidance counselor. They can get you help. It sounds like you fear being rejected because of these thoughts and I'm not going to give you the whole "you're not alone" speech because that's way overplayed. God can only help you if you let him. And sometimes he puts others into your life to help you.

In my town we have free therapists that come to your home. We also have free therapy at my church if you're a member. Maybe you could look into something like that. Counselors are very nice people and trustworthy as long as you let them in.

In the meantime pray and pray like you mean it. Jesus is there waiting for you to see that He is all you need. He loves you and I do too because we are sisters in Christ and we are going to meet someday whether it be in this world or when Jesus comes. Just know that doing that yourself isn't an option you want to take. We are told to love others like we love ourselves. If people love themselves superficially or not at all, how then are we going to love our neighbors? Reach out to Jesus girl and see what he has in store. Love yourself--God has special and perfect plans for you.

I will be praying for you!!

-Marissa

Carrie, with the LYWB team

@Anonymous
on Thursday, January 24, 2013 at 8:54 am

Hey there, Friend!

I wanted to let you know that we have decided not to post your earlier comment. You haven't done anything wrong, but in past experience we have found it best not to put comments where a serious threat of suicide has been made on a forum as public as this one.

However, we do want to help you and encourage you to choose to believe God's Truth which is that Jesus came so that you may have life (John 10:10) and that taking your own life is NOT God's will for you. I have sent you an email to the address you listed in your comment so that we can correspond privately if you wish.

In the meantime, I want to encourage you to tell someone about how you are feeling. Talk to your parents. Reach out to your youth pastor. Call a friend who is wise and loves the Lord. Will it be easy? No. But neither is the pain and isolation you are feeling right now. Drag those feelings into the light and borrow strength from those around you until you are able to see clearly that you are loved deeply by God.

Grace and Peace!

Laugh

Help please....It is off topic sorry :( but im not sure what to do
on Thursday, January 24, 2013 at 10:31 pm

I do not have a good relationship with my dad. Everything he does drives me crazy. In my head I get so upset with him. He comes to all my games, but I'm upset when he comes. I don't want hime to be there.

The weird thing is is that he is a godly man. Yes, he definitely messes up like all of us, but he is much better than most fathers. He loves me and supports my family, but I still just can't stand him a lot of times. I don't like to make eye contact with him, and when we are in the car together I barely talk to him. I am a different person around him (and sometimes my other family members too).

I heard in a sermon that I can't expect to be following God's will and being used by Him if I don't have respect for my parents. Should I keep this to myself and God and try to work on making things better, or should I talk to someone (like a non-family member)? I go to a Christian school and I thought about telling my coach or one of my teachers but idk if that is something worth telling someone about.

I want things to treat him better so that I can follow and be used by God, but sometimes I just don't care about our relationship. That kinda scares me when I start to not care :( if any body has advice i would appreciate it <3

Heidi

Re:
on Friday, January 25, 2013 at 8:07 am

I'm in!

Sarah, with the LYWB team

@Laugh...
on Sunday, January 27, 2013 at 11:36 pm

I am so glad you realize the seriousness of your attitude. Yes, you do want to do what is necessary to find yourself in a right relationship with your dad. I would encourage you to take time and make a list of the things you find irritating about your dad. Then, take that list before the Lord, pray about them, asking God to change your heart concerning these things. Tear up that list and commit yourself to leaving these things behind in your thinking. Then, begin a list of everything you do like, you are thankful for, about your dad. Keep this list and add one more thing each day--even if you have to repeat a couple of things. (Let me tell you one big one--if you go to a Christian school, it is a great sacrifice on your dad's part! BE GRATEFUL! And from what you have said in your post, you no doubt will find you have a long list!!) You will find expressing gratitude changes your heart in ways that only God can.

It is always helpful for a young person to talk with a trusted, godly adult about those things that trouble. Do talk with your coach or one of your teachers so that they can pray with you and keep you accountable to work toward a right attitude. Their counsel will be invaluable to you.

I'm so glad you posted. I have considered it a great privilege to pray for you tonight! Do let us know how it goes!

Laugh

@Sarah with the LYWB team
on Monday, January 28, 2013 at 4:53 pm

Hey Sarah! Thank you soooo much for replying to my comment! Today after school I talked to my cheer coach. I told her all about my relationship with my dad. She teared up because she is having a problem similar to mine with her younger daughter. She was so helpful and encouraging to me. It was helpful to get a parent's perspective and help. Thanks for your advice! I will give it a try. Love ya! You have been such a help! Ugh.... i wish I could actually meet you in person :) God bless!

Sarah, with the LYWB team

@Laugh...
on Tuesday, January 29, 2013 at 4:58 pm

And I'd love to meet you, too! :-) I'm very proud of you for taking the step to get things started on the road to honoring and respecting your dad! God was faithful to lead you to just the right person! Thank You, Lord!

Julia

Battling Discouragement & Fear
on Saturday, February 2, 2013 at 11:58 pm

Hye,
tired of giving in to discouragement & fear of the future. can you suggest any verses please?

Heart4missions

@Julia
on Sunday, February 3, 2013 at 3:48 pm

Isaiah 41:10
Joshua 1:9

Pray a lot and trust God.

Lorree, with the LYWB team

@ Julia
on Monday, February 4, 2013 at 4:19 pm

I like Heart4Mission’s suggestions for scripture. Would you be willing to commit to spending 5 minutes each morning and evening in Scripture? I’d also encourage you to read Psalm 139 each day and even take Paula’s suggestion to memorize verses 13-16. Julia, will you also talk with an older godly woman about your struggles and ask her to pray for you—maybe your mom or your pastor’s wife? She will be able to help you and support you through this difficult time of your life. I’m praying right now that God will show you who you should talk with this week.

Tiffany

Re:
on Thursday, March 7, 2013 at 2:41 am

I've been struggling with depression for a while and I'm only 13.

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