Showing posts with label Healing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Healing. Show all posts

When the Devil Comes to Steal Your Blessing and Testimony


Have you noticed that when things are going good, the devil comes along and tries to steal your blessing? Some may say it is just self-doubt, but I truly believe it is the devil just wispering lies into our minds.  He wants to steal your blessing, your joy, your courage, and your faith.  Do not let him get a way with it!  Claim the promise that God gave you and thow it back at the devil.  God promises he will flee when confronted.  

But He gives greater grace. Therefore it says, 
“God opposes the proud, but He gives grace to the humble.” 
So submit to God. 
But resist the devil and he will flee from you.
- James 4:6-7 (NET)

Last week, I was blessed with a healing.  This week several times when I was out on my daily walk, I might feel a weakness, tiredness, or small twitch in my shoulder.  Immediately the devil would try to tell me the pain was going to come back and I was not really healed.  So I shut him up quickly by saying "Yes, Jesus healed my shoulder completely.  I feel no pain.  I know He healed me and so do you. So shut up and move along, you are wrong.  I am healed and I know it."  Maybe it does not sound humble, but I would instantly feel better and the nudging to deny my healing would be gone.  We have to keep our faith by claiming the truth.  The devil does not like truth and he will run the other way to avoid it.  

Lift Your Arms - A Healing Testimony of Praise


I am a healthy person, especially good for my age.  Most of you readers do not know this, I have been dealing with right shoulder pain since mid-April.  I am one of those people who often thinks their aches and pains are stressed or pulled muscle and it will go away in a week or so with ice or a heating pad.  Well, this time it did not, instead the pain got worse and the area around my back shoulder blade was noticeably mree swollen than the other side.  After a few more days of ice instead of heat and ibuprofen making no difference in pain and very little with swelling, I called to get into the doctor.  His next open appointment was over two weeks away but they would let me switch that with my spouse, who was scheduled for the next day and he could come on the later date. This was a small blessing.  The doctor recommended more frequent ice sessions, a short regimen of theraphy, and larger doses of ibuprofen to see if it fixed the problem since I still had good range of motion.  I was praying and expecting a quick healing, instead the pain only seemed to get worse!  However the swelling did finally go down.

O Lord my God, I cried to you for help, and you have healed me. - Psalm 30:2 (ESV)

Since therapy did not work, I was sent for an MRI in May, which showed two muscles tears above the shoulder blade and inflammation in the shoulder joint.  I was referred to the Orthopedist that did my shoulder surgery several years before.  It would be almost two months before I could an appointment with the specialist! I made the appointment and asked to be put on a wait-list in case of a cancellation. By now, my spouse had to drive me everywhere because I could barely lift my arm.  I was wondering why God was not giving me a quick solution, which I was continually praying for.  A few days later, the Orthopedist receptionist called me to see if I was willing to go out-of-town for an appointment in mid-June. Another small blessing that we willingly took!  The Orthopdic surgeon said the old surgery still looked good so he gave me shots in the shoulder to relieve that, plus scheduled therapy to start the following week, and a perscription for a few pain pills.  The shots made me dizzy and nauseous.   So after being returned to in a seat in the waiting area and drinking half a can of soda, I was ok enough to walk to car with my son and spouse helping.  I took a nap after each therapy session once I finished an icing session because the pain pills made me sleepy.  Over the next few weeks, the pain got somewhat better and after about two months I could finally drive myself again.  I kept praying to be strong and healthy again.  Thank the Lord, I had the support I needed during this time [unlike poor Job with his friends and family].

Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved, 
for you are my praise. - Jeremiah 17:14 (ESV)

However, there was still occasional bad pain.  When I went for my yearly physical at the beginning of this month, my doctor asked about the shoulder.  I said it was better, although I still had pain off and on, as well as  limitations in what I could lift.  Since it was no longer excruciating and keeping me from doing most things, I said it was something I could just live with [like Paul's thorn in the flesh].  

And he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.” - Luke 8:48 (ESV)

About seven months after all this started on Sunday (November 10, 2024) at church, we had a movement of God for healing and help with other needs.  While we were praying for people, I got an impression that I should lift my arm as high as I could.  So I relied on God, lifted my right arm to a typically comfortable level, and continued to pray in the spirit as God led me.  As I prayed I could sense my arm going higher.  By the time we finished praying and praising God, I had no pain!  Praise Jesus!  It may seem like a small thing to some, but to me it was a miracle!  I felt like the woman who touched the hem of Jesus garment.  I feel it is a testimony that although we may go through things and not understand why, with God all things are possible and everything that happens has a purpose.  We may not understand the why yet, but someday we will.

Repent Now, Stop One World Order, and Gain Freedom

When reading Psalm 2, I was struck by how much it is like today, not just in "olden times" of King David but in all times current and future.  Too often men think of themselves as not only above others but above God.  They say there is no God, so they can do as they want.  They believe they can rebuke God, be unjust toward their fellow mankind, and can steal from other citizens and nations.  They have no problem with entrapping those that will not fall in line with their plans.  Instead of denouncing their evil plans, asking for forgiveness, and turning to God again - they force their way by imprisoning those who point out their mistakes.

"Why do the nations rebel? Why are the countries devising plots that will fail? 
The kings of the earth form a united front; 
the rulers collaborate against the Lord and His anointed king." - Psalm 2:1-2 (NET)

The global world order is against God and his people.  Those leaders want to control everyone and everything!  They have declared war against Christianity.  Between the first and last verses, God laughs at them for their insolence.  God warns them to turn away from their evil lies and plans or be destroyed. They can not stand against God!  Those leaders are NOT to to be worshiped or followed.  Throughout the scritpures, we are promised that the only one that can give us what we need and prepare us for the joy of true freedom is God.  

"Serve the Lord in fear. Repent in terror. Give sincere homage. 
Otherwise He will be angry, and you will die because of your behavior, 
when His anger quickly ignites.
 How blessed are all who take shelter in Him!" - Psalm 2:11-12 (NET)

It is time for Christians to remind their leaders who God is and what God requires of them and us.  Our freedom and future depend on it. Not just for our current physical needs and the future of our children, but our eternal souls as well.  Otherwise ALL are doomed! Christians must stand up against this evil!  If not we will continue to lose our earthly rights and are helping to send many to hell as well.  That is not want God wants!  Christians, where are your voices?  Where are you arms and legs for God?  Put on God's  armor, pray for your warriors and your own warrior-spirit, and then soldiers get going towards victory!

Song for the Hurting to Find Joy in Christ - A New Christmas Song

Many Christians,  and non-believers too, struggle to be happy over the holidays.  They may feel unworthy to celebrate or even know Christ as their savior.  With the physical loneliness, emotional strain, and spiritual separation that COVID shutdowns caused in fellowship and church attendance: many still find it hard to raise their voices in traditional joyous carols like "O Come Let Us Adore Him."  Thus the story of a new song written in 2020 "O Come, All You Unfaithful" to bring comfort and spiritual healing to those in despair and experiencing feelings of hopelessness.  The newer song emphasizes that Jesus was born for the salivation of all - He died on the cross for all sinners.  Remember, that Christ still lives. loves, and forgives today!

And He <Jesus Christ> is the propitiation for our sins: 
and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. - 1 John 2:2

The lyrics for the song are in the music video below.  The song is from Heaven Has Come Christmas CD via Sovereign Grace Music.  The story link above contains the official video plus links to other resources for worship leaders, Christian musicians and singers.


Make the Choice to Choose Life!

With the overturning of Roe vs. Wade and the the decisions about abortion law returning to states, there will be new Pro-life battles closer to home now.  Christians must stand on the right side of this life and death issue and continue to work against the sacrifice of babies to Satan's desires.  For a moment, breath and know that the angels and the unborn children are singing with joy that they have been saved. Then get ready to continue working against wickedness and immorality. 

Today I am giving you a choice of two ways. And I ask heaven and earth to be witnesses of your choice. You can choose life or death. The first choice will bring a blessing. The other choice will bring a curse. So choose life! Then you and your children will live. - Deuteronomy 30:19 (ERV)

Additional Notes: For more related Bible verses regarding this topic, see 20 Bible Verses About Abortion and What The Bible Says.  For quotes from other people regarding abortion, see 15 Christian Quotes Against Abortion.  For a list of related music see 8 Songs About The Horror Of Abortion From Various Perspectives. For more rhymes, see 28 Sad Poems on Grieving with Abortion Pain.


POST SHORT URL = https://tinyurl.com/5n6tn834 

God Isn't Into Instant

Everyone is in such a hurry to go somewhere or get something immediately.  We live a fast-food life with drive-thrus and microwaves.  We can look up almost any topic on the internet and quickly find a viewpoint we can instantly agree or argue with.  We do not want to wait for anything, even if waiting may be the best option for us.  We want instant gratification and quick solutions!

"For the revelation pertains to an appointed time— it speaks truthfully about the end. Though it delays, wait for it, because it will surely come about— it will not be late!" 
- Habakkuk 2:3 (ISV)

With that attitude, it is no wonder we expect God to react to our every wish and whim.   We want healing now. We want peace now.  We want justice now.  We want prosperity now.  We want blessings now.  We want ... whatever NOW!  

"Don’t forget this fact, dear friends: With the Lord a single day is like a thousand years, 
and a thousand years are like a single day. The Lord is not slow about his promise, 
as some people understand slowness, but is being patient with you. 
He does not want anyone to perish, but everyone to find room for repentance."
- 2 Peter 3:8-9 (ISV)

God's timing is not the same as humans.  God knows what is best for us and when we are ready to receive it.  That is not to say, that He ignores us when we ask for things.  We should continue to pray/ask and if our desire is within His will and the time is right, we can expect to get what we need.  What we need may or may not be the same as what we ask.  We need to recognize when He answers prayers, whether the answer is "instant" or requires we have patience to wait for His perfect timing.  

Overcoming Negative Emotions

nehemiah 8:10
In the world today, there is so much focus on negative emotions we inflict upon ourselves or force onto others (sometime knowingly and often unknowingly).  Modern marketing tells us we will be happy if we can just get a little more of something.  We are bombarded with psychological and societal methods for improving the way we feel.  If a method works,  it is only for a short time.  The emotions return and too often are more intense with time.  There is no better emotion-shifter than having a relationship with God.  

"But He gives more grace. Therefore it says, 
'God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.'  
Submit yourselves therefore to God. 
Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 
Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. 
Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, 
you double-minded."- James 4:6-8 (ESV)

This does not mean we will no longer experience negative feelings of anger, fear, loneliness, or sadness.  Instead, we will have a power to call on our God to will help us overcome the negativity in our lives.  He can replace: anger with composure, fear with determination, loneliness with His presence, and sadness with contentment.  Deciding to accept a relationship with God (instead of continuing in wordly indecision) is no guarantee that life will always be tranquil. However, we will know and experience the true promise of God's love. 

Too Many People Are Going to Hell

Too many people are going to hell of their own free will!  So many people are experiencing hell on earth right now and too many of them are also headed towards eternal hell.  Can anything be done about this?

Some people are involved in violence.  A few want the violence for personal, profitable, or political reasons.  Others are part of the violence for pay, to loot, enjoy villainy, or want unmerited fame;  while others are just going along.  Violence is usually the product of hate, crime, or emotionally-driven unrest. Who is leading the way for violence?   It is a favorite tactic of the devil to destroy both those guilty of participating in violence and the innocent who fear the results of violence. Who can stop the violence?

"For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and 
hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us"  
- Ephesians 2:14 (KJV)

Some people are lonely or depressed.  For some, depression can come from actual circumstances, things going on around them, words wrongfully spoken, or deceptive thoughts and personal perceptions.  Why has depression increased?  What can be done to help overcome the depression?  Others  have no one to talk with, while another may have people they can turn to but do not feel they can do so.  Then loneliness creeps into their lives. often soon followed by depression.  When will the lonesomeness end?

"Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, 
that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost." 
- Romans 15:13 (KJV)

As a Christian, what are you doing about the people you know are headed for hell?  When you see wrong, are you retaliating and screaming back physically or are you fighting spiritually?  Are you telling people about Jesus and leading them in the prayer of salvation.  As a Church body, how is your group helping to: alleviate the pain of others, lead people to Christ, stop crime in your neighborhood, and fight falsehoods and the increasing evil in society?  Is your church bringing in sinners in to be saved from hell?  Or does it allow the sins to stay just to fill a seat or is it too quickly jumping on a social or worldly fads to mollify the ungodly? Pray through Christ for Godly direction to lead more away from hell and toward heaven.

How to Find Refreshing

Do you believe persecution of thoughts and distortions of laws are becoming a concern in this world?  Are you feeling that the things are caving in on you?  Does the world around you seem angry, upside-down, or encompassed in chaos?  Are you in fear of what may happen to those you love? Do you feel like something is bound to break? Are you afraid that something will be you?  

"Repent, then, and turn to God, 
so that your sins may be wiped out,
that times of refreshing may come from the Lord," 
- Acts 3:19 (NIV)

Maybe it is time to turn from the world, repent of following the wrong things, and move more towards Christ.  Knowing you are forgiven of your sins through God's grace and Jesus's sacrifice is very liberating.  Following the teachings of Jesus Christ can also be liberating as it keeps you on the righteous and direct path rather than one that leads to personal destruction.  You can enjoy your spiritual freedom as God gives you emotional comfort that also leads to future physical well-being.

One Day There Will Be Healing

Churches are once again open for services, yet a few Christians have not returned to their congregation.  Some are still afraid for their health or that the evil ones will continue to cause trouble between people of faith and those with little hope in their lives.  Let us remember that no matter what is going on in the world around us, God is still in charge!  He helps us walk through today and promises us a better tomorrow!  So get back to worship, fellowship, and Gods unfailing presence in whatever way is possible (in person or live-stream).  Find encouragement with the Cochren and Company song in video below?

"So then, do not judge anything before the time. Wait until the Lord comes. 
He will bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the motives of hearts. 
Then each will receive recognition from God.." - 1 Corinthians 4:5 (NET)

Continue to pray for healing in our nation and the rest of the world  Pray for our government leaders that they may make the right decisions.  Pray for our business leaders that they make the right decisions for their companies and employees.  Pray for our church leaders that they can get back to being the type of pastors  and shepherds they were called to be.  Thank you again for your support of this blog and your church.

Nine Spiritual Gifts of Manifestation

The spiritual gifts of manifestations may be the most well known in the Church as these show the power of God to His people.  These gifts are supernatural in nature, so many Christians feel they are unworthy of receiving these gifts or that the gifts were for the start of Christianity and not for today.  However, scripture clearly says these gifts of special and spiritual abilities are for each of us, that means everyone and even now.  The manifestation gifts are to help others and share information, as well as  provide personal spiritual growth.

If you have or desire one of these spiritual gifts, it is important to remember they are for God's purpose through you.  You should not take credit for anything the Holy Spirit does though you.  Give God the glory always.  

 "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. 
For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; 
to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 
To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 
To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits;
to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: 
But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, 
dividing to every man severally as he will." - 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 (KJV)   

Below is a summary for the nine spiritual gifts of manifestation, divided into three supernatural purpose  categories: 

  POWER GIFTS DO SHOW GOD'S POWER 

  • Faith is the ability to believe and trust God in all circumstances to provide extraordinary results.  It is more than the faith of salvations as it requires spiritual maturity and a close relationship with God.  This spiritual gift is confidence in God to overcome obstacles and produce miraculous outcomes.  People with this gift know God is good, expect Him to answer prayers, and put their lives completely in His hands.
  • Healing is faith in supernatural restoration of the body, mind, and emotions manifested in hurting people through fervent prayer and the sovereign will of God.  It shows the compassion of God for mankind and that He cares about their suffering,   People will this gift mirror God's compassion for the sick, are concerned for the spiritual well-being of the afflicted, are strong intercessors for others, and willing prayer partners.
  • Miracles indicate there is no limit to what God can do and that He can perform might deeds.  People with this gift believe anything is possible with God and that He will supernaturally intervene to make His will and power known.  They know manifested miracles strengthen the faith of Christians and draw more people to God.

  REVELATION GIFTS REVEAL GOD's INTENTIONS/DESIRES

  • Discerning (aka Discernment, Distinguishing Spirits) is supernatural insight on whether a situation, person, place, or event is good/right/true/heavenly or evil/wrong/false/demonic.  The ability to distinguish evil is  protects Christians and Churches from being lead in the wrong direction.  People with this spiritual gift can  recognize in specific situations the difference between the influence of God versus the devil, worldly view, and flesh-driven activities.  This allows them to warn others of the danger and keep them from false teaching that may lead them astray.
  • Knowledge is the ability to understand facts and information revealed by from God to apply the truth and purpose of His Word.  It is used  to protect or warn though spiritually and mentally revealing God;s direction in a situation in order to teach, warn, or guide others in the Church.  People with this gift enjoy studying and memorizing the scriptures, have a deep understanding of the Holy Bible, and focus on God's will and ways. 
  • Wisdom is the ability to make good decisions from a righteous perspective, avoid actions harmful to the Church, and advise or guide others through a supernatural understanding of God's truth.   People with this gift see through turbulence, provide practical ideas, and steer things in the direction of God's will  and His Holy Word.  They can help individuals and groups obtain 

  UTTERANCE GIFTS SPEAK GOD'S MESSAGE 

  • Interpretation is the ability to understand and explain a message given in tongues so that God is glorified and the Church is edified.  People with this spiritual gift communicate the meaning of a message in tongues to those who need to understand it so that God; people are encouraged and blessed.  They seek to serve God effectively and deeply love Him.
  • Tongues (aka Unknown Language, Prayer Language) is a sign from God to get the attention of Christians and unbelievers in a language that is unknown to the speaker.  This spiritual gift should be interpreted if given in a group so that all present may understand God's message.  The purpose of tongues in is to glorify God and draw people to Him. People with this gift have a willing and obedient heart that is open to God using them for the edification of His Church.  Some may use the utterance gift in their private prayer time when interceding for others and situations, alternatively it may be an uplifting praise to God
  • Prophecy is an inspired message with the purpose of confirming His Word, building up  and directing the Church.  The message typically helps the Church understand the desires of God.  This is also an important motivational gift for and ministry in the Church.

The supernatural working of the spiritual gifts of manifestation will strengthen the Church body and individuals.  These gifts are as relevant and available today as they were in New Testament times of the early Church. 

Ask God to give you a manifestation spiritual gift in order to grow your in your relationship with Him and help others to see His power.  If you really desire to be an instrument of God, you will receive the gift He intends for you.  In sharing your gift with the Church body, you allow God to work through you.  This will bring joy and blessings into your live, the lives of others, and your Church.  

Jesus the Entertainer?

What did he crowds of people want when they followed Jesus?  Did they want to see His miracles or wished to see a magic show?  Did they want to hear His excellent sermons and parables, or were they just expecting a great motivational speaker and orator of the times?  Did they want to be fed spiritual food for their souls or to satisfy physical hunger?  Jesus the Entertainer, NOT!  Instead they found teacher, healer, savior - the Son of God.

"And the people saw them departing,
and many knew him, 
and ran afoot thither out of all cities,
and outwent them, and came together unto him. 
And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, 
and was moved with compassion toward them, 
because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: 
and he began to teach them many things." - Mark 6:33-34 

Are preachers taking the pulpit for Biblical ad spiritual learning to meet entertainment standards.   Are worship leaders getting everyone to grow closer to God and learn scripture by singing along, or are they just giving a concert?  Are church congregations becoming audience members rather than active followers of Jesus and anointed by the Holy Spirit to do God's work?    

"And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, 
he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, 
and gave them to his disciples to set before them; 
and the two fishes divided he among them all.  
And they did all eat, and were filled." - Mark 6:41-42

Remember the acronym WWJD: What would Jesus do?  If you study the Bible, you know what Jesus did ad you learn what he expects you to do too.  It is time to go back to the purpose of the church and the mission of discipleship.  Time to feed the hungry - body and soul.  Focus on John 3:16 and tell everyone about Jesus and what God did for them through Jesus Christ.    It is time for real REVIVAL!

"And whithersoever he entered, into villages, or cities, or country, 
they laid the sick in the streets, and besought him 
that they might touch if it were but the border of his garment: 
and as many as touched him were made whole." - Mark 6:56

Praise God Anyway

Praise God Anyway is the theme in one of the thirty-eight lessons in Susan Kerr's devotional "Intersections of Grace" (available on Amazon #ad)  where she introduces the accronym PGA. Praise God Anyway (PGA!)  In her study, she references the confinement verses in Acts listed at the bottom of this post.  There are more examples in the Bible, a few are noted below along with relatable questions for yourself.  

"Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name." - Psalm 63:3-4 (KJV) 

In Habakkuk 3:17-19, he is suffering because his garden and cattle are not producing enough to eat.  Even so, the prophet praises God anyway.  Could you praise even if you have no food, lost property, unable to achieve goals or other types of profit?  Instead, should you consider the home, family, and blessings you do have and be thankful for those?

Job 1:2 shows that even though Job has lost his wealth, family, health and is wrongly accused; he may have become depressed however, he refuses to abandon God and praises Him anyway.   If you are going through illness,being lied about, or suffering the loss of a loved one - could you praise God anyway?  Can you be grateful for your past and look toward Gods future plans for you?

"Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: 
for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (KJV) 

Psalms 57 was composed by David (the slayer of Goliath and future king) when he was tired, sacred, and living in a cave. However, he praises God anyway.  Should you praise God anyway when you are afraid, depressed, or feeling alone?  Would things turn around for you if you look at what you have, where you have come from, and what joy could be there for you if you just praise the Lord?

In Acts 16:25-36, Paul and Silas are in chains within a prison for refusing to ignore their calling of God.  Even so, they sing praises to God anyway.  Would you praise God anyway if you were unjustly confined, lost your job, or your candidate did not win the election.  Instead could you consider the freedoms you do have and be grateful for those?

PGA!

Want to Save the World? Start Right Here!

Watch and listen to below music video  by Casting Crowns.  Start Right Here is a revival song for our church today.  You can buy single MP3 or album CD on Amazon #ad

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
- 2 Chronicles 7:14 (KJV)

Music (Lyrics Video Version

All Lives Matter to Jesus Christ

 

"The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. - 2 Peter 3:9 (KJV)

In a time when many use the words "racism" or "racist" just to push a certain narrative or get their own way, remember the children's song Jesus Loves All the Children of the World.  God is NOT a bigot.  God does not see skin color, ethnicity, or nationality. He sees His creation; He sees His children.  He gave His only son, Jesus as the Christ sacrifice, so that all could be forgiven of their sins and come to Him.  Jesus Christ is waiting patiently for the world to wake up and seek Him.  He has a place in Heaven for everyone willing to accept it.  Although He offers us peace on earth if we trust Him, things of this world do not matter.  It is the ever-after that He promises us. 

"For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; >
who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. 
For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, 
the man Christ Jesus; who gave himself a ransom for all, 
to be testified in due time." - 1 Timothy 2:3-6 (KJV)

Depression Rising? Look for Strength in the Joy of the Lord

Have you heard that more people are getting depressed each year?  Is depression really on the rise?  
--  According to CBS News, from 1980 to 2014, the use of anti-depressants in the United States doubled.
--  According to NBC News, major depression diagnosis rose 33% in four year period (from to 2013 through 2016) based on 2018 BCBS report and charts.
--  According to NAMCS survey, since 1987 the number of depression diagnosis had 450% increase plus 2020 Happier Human reports the estimated cost of depression is $100 Billion per year.

Why?  Some blame technology and social media because it builds a barrier to people being close and continual communication.  Others say it is situational because there are lots of different types of depression.

"... For this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; 
for the joy of the Lord is your strength." - Nehemiah 8:10 (KJV)

Could the increase in depression be related to the decrease in church attendance or Christian faith in America?  A correlation in the statistics does make it seem very likely this is part of the problem. Church not only provides a basis for faith, it provides a fellowship with other Christians.  Prayer to God and physically having someone to talk with is an important part of recovery.

-- According to 2014 Religion News article, from 1997 to 2012 the drop in religious activity [like church attendance and dedicated prayer] was double what the drop was during the "free love" hippie culture of 1960s through early 1970s.
-- Was the leveling of religion from the 70s to late 90s  due to Christian conversion turnaround in history of the Jesus Movement from late 1960s through 1970s?  There was a church attendance spike and another religious awakening after the terrorist attacks of 9/11/2001.  What will it take to bring the USA back to one nation under God?

Find out ways to help in 2018 column from Everyday Health that offers 5 ways faith can help depression.  Belief Net shares 6 truths about depression and faith.  Compelling Truth also posts ideas on types of depression and multiple Bible references.

We are All Brothers and Sisters through Christ's Blood

“Let us make man in our image, after our likeness." - Genesis 1:26

God created man in his image out of his desire for fellowship.  One man (Adam) and one woman (Eve) were the parents of all the  races on mankind. But man separated himself from God when he chose to disobey.  Humans continued to withdraw from God and each other as time went on.

"I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions 
and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; 
avoid them." - Romans 16:17 (ESV)

Jesus Christ, the son of God, was sent to shed his blood as a sacrifice for mankind.  Through Him all may be redeemed and adopted into the family of God.  After receiving salvation, each one becomes a new brother or sister with Christ.  Members of God's family are to avoid evil and share His love.

The thief comes only to steal kill and destroy. 
I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. - John 10:10 (ESV)

Why do we continue to exacerbate human issues?  Psychology Today article, "What's the problem?" makes a suggestion.  However to solve the true problems in this world, we should read the Bible for guidance.

Whoever says he is in the light and hates his brother is still in darkness. 
Whoever loves his brother abides in the light, 
and in him there is no cause for stumbling. 
But whoever hates his brother is in the darkness and walks in the darkness, 
and does not know where he is going, 
because the darkness has blinded his eyes." - 1 John 2:9-11 (ESV)

In the video below, Aveda King shares that we are all part of the human race and have the same red blood.  The key is to remember this and unbiblical-ness of racism shall begin to fall away.  Until then, continue to pray for God's healing and deliverance for His sons and daughters in this world

Pray for God's Justice and Righteousness in this World

In times of despair, injustice, or violence - men and women may get emotional. Humans try to explain what they think happened in the past or should happen in the future.  Sometimes they believes a lie, other times they may know only a half truth, then again the facts may be clear.  What is the motive behind the pre and post actions?  Can mankind really understand why people do what they do? Can any group understand another?  Satan loves to spread lies, encourage hate, and stir up conflict; is the devil behind what is happening? Are humans qualified to judge the actions and motives of each other?  Who knows everything that is behind what is going on?

"But let justice roll down like waters, 
and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream." 
- Amos 5:24 (ESV) 

If you are concerned about things going on in the world, turn your concerns to the most righteous one - God.  God not only sees the actions of any man or woman, he knows the motive behind their actions.  Before you react, pray for God's justice using the scriptures of His Word.  Read the Bible and ask for His guidance.  He will lead you to the correct path 0r tell you to stand still.  Wait upon the Lord and leave judgement to God, as he is the only one able to make a truly correct decision.

Two Wrongs Do Not Make a Right

How many of you will agree that satan is evil?  The devil is the father of lies. Satan enjoys spreading hate.  He jumps for joy when he sees mankind is struggling or in conflict.  The devil knows if he can get people to react without thinking or praying, he can then lead them to do wrong.  Any wrong can lead to several other wrongs and can pull people further away from God's plan for them.

Can you recognize when satan is the instiagater of a situation?  Your mother may have told you "Two wrongs don't make a right."  There is Biblical truth in that statement.  If you see evil building through revenge or anger, then you know that the devil must have been at the root of it.  He continues to fan the flames with lies, hate, and misinformation.

"Make sure that no one pays back evil for evil. Instead, 
always pursue what is good for each other and for everyone else."
 - 1 Thessalonians 5:15 (ISV)

So how do you make sure you do not increase the wrong and help satan with his plans?  You look for what good can you do for others.  You choose not to slander others or help spread lies.  You pursue the right attitude to improve the situation while not escalating the problem.  If you are not sure what to do, the best thing is to pray for God's guidance.  Ask God, not a person as he/she may be easily fooled by satan.

Taking the time to pray and talk with God can heal hearts.  Healed hearts can lead to understanding each other better and improving communication with one another.  Good intentions of mankind are not enough to improve things.  However, God's love and your understanding can change the situation.

Where Does Healing Come From?

Healing comes from God through Christ.  Christ died on the cross for the salvation of mankind.   Sickness comes through the king of lies and sin, satan.  Jesus Christ defeated satan when He took sin upon Himself to heal the broken relationship between God and mankind.  This spiritual relationship healing is given to any person who repents of their personal sins and accepts Christ into their live.  Once forgiveness is requested and Christ is accepted, the sinner is saved.  Then the choice to follow Christ needs to be made.  Followers/disciples of Christ  are known as Christians.

"Behold, I will bring to it health and healing, and I will heal them 
and reveal to them abundance of prosperity and security." - Jeremiah 33:6 (ESV)

Becoming a Christian is more than just believing that Christ existed, it is a spiritual healing.  After spiritual healing, physical and emotional healing can begin.  Through prayer, Christians can ask for healing of the body, family, mind, and more.  If the request is made with the desire to be within God's will and through faith in Christ, Christians will receive an answer to their prayers.

“Afterwards Jesus found him in the temple and said to him, ‘See, you are well!  
Sin no more, that nothing worse may happen to you.'” - John 5:14 (ESV)

Being a Christian does not mean that mistakes will not be made during the walk with Christ,  Humans make mistakes, with prayer and supplication we can get back on the right path.  The Christian path requires a contrite heart and willing spirit.  The spiritual relationship will grow stronger and healthier with steadfast faith.