My friend Lisa suggested a list of all the tips. I think she had a good idea so I did just that. I feel pretty inadequate, laying these thoughts to you, in hopes they can be of some help or encouragement. But I know from my own experience and many of my friends that fighting depression and discouragement is indeed a real battle. I wish I could believe it doesn't have to be fought in the lives of Christians but that is simply not reality. We Christ-followers are indeed waging a costly war against this malady. And, it brings me to tears as I recall some who never have found victory. I believe we can, I know we can. If you find yourself in such darkness that you cannot even find the faith to believe, then I will believe for you. That's not unbiblical - see Luke 5:20. Let me know how you're doing. If you've been able to encourage someone else with a tip or two from here. Or if you've been encouraged yourself.
1. Check out possible physical problems (fatigue, hormones, illness)
2. Acknowledge God's command to be joyful
3. Don't blame others - accept responsibility for your own joy
4. Confess sin
5. Address systems errors (ways to do things better/more successfully)
6. Accept the unchangeables.
7. THE WORD - get in it.
8. Pray. And listen.
9. Talk to yourself - but be sure and preach the Truth!
10. Monitor music and media
11. Immerse yourself in God's creation
12. Don't go to the extreme of over-activity or of isolation.
13. Serve others.
14. Give Satan his due, but no more. Focus on Christ.
15. Know you are loved.
16. Do something.
17. Be thankful.
18. Don't trust your feelings - trust the Truth.
19. It's not all about you - consider the effect you have on others.
20. Forgiveness
21. Use medicine sparingly, after you have tried the other strategies.
22.
Wait on the Lord.
