God Has a Plan
Today's Scripture
"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" - Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
Thoughts for Today
Most people suffering from chronic depression feel as though they are worthless. They believe they are no good to anyone and that their life is meaningless. In fact, most of us deal with these feelings from time to time.
If you are feeling this way, remember this good news: God knows everything about you and you are important to him … so important that he gave his only Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for your sin. "But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners" (Romans 5:8 NLT).
The Bible says that you are so important to God that he is concerned about you (Exodus 4:31). He knows you by name (Exodus 33:17) and he fights for you (Deuteronomy 1:30). He cares so much that he carries you as a father carries his child (Deuteronomy 1:31). He even guards you as the apple of his eye (Deuteronomy 32:10).
Consider this …
Your life is meaningful because God chose to give birth to you. He says in his Word that you are special and he has a plan for you, and that it is a plan for good.
Prayer
Father, help me focus on you and your love. Help me focus on the truth in your Word instead of being controlled by my feelings. Thank you for loving me enough to give me birth and for making a good plan for my life. Thank you that I don't have to be afraid because you have a plan for me. Show me your purpose for this journey and help me accomplish it. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from …
Understanding Depression: Overcoming Despair through Christ by Donald G. Miles, Ed.D. This study deals with depression, a condition common throughout the world, and is suggested for use in support groups and Christian counseling.
- Understanding what depression is and how it affects relationships
- Understanding the relationship between depression and spiritual warfare
- Ways to fight depression with scripture, prayer and mutual support
- Understanding the special prayer needs of depressed persons
- How to pray for healing and what to expect
- Serves as a powerful evangelistic tool by providing a way to minister to people's felt needs and then lead them to Christ
Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups, and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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