I have just finished the book Healing for Damaged Emotions by David A. Seamands. This post is about this book, and I am sharing some of its ideas here. I give this author full credit. He wrote about anger, guilt, depression, inferiority, and perfectionism. I think most of us can relate to one or more of those topics! There is no judgment or condemnation in this book for the Christian (or nonChristian) who is experiencing any of these, or who is still in denial about experiencing any of these. I mention this because all too often we are told that if we “really were” Christians or if we “weren’t doing something wrong,” we would not be having these problems.
The truth is, we all have junk in our past that we have to deal with. The junk affects our life. We think we can shove it deep down inside and just ignore it. Sadly, the truth is that it affects our decisions and our actions. Dealing with our junk is not about blaming someone else; it is about accepting responsibility for how we respond to it.
Let us focus on depression and the steps the author recommends (pp127-129).
1. “Avoid being alone.” Do not isolate yourself. Choose to be with other people. Force yourself if necessary.
2. “Seek help from others.” A trustworthy friend can help you get a true perspective on that molehill you’ve distorted into a mountain. A true friend can also create joy.
3. “Sing – make music.” It may not be easy to start, but it will lift your spirit. In 1 Samuel 16:14-23, we read how only the beauty of David’s music could lift up King Saul.
4. “Praise and give thanks.” Praise God even when you don’t feel like it. Praise God even when you don’t feel His Presence. He IS with you, whether you feel His Presence or not. In 1 Thess 5:18 we read, “In everything give thanks.”
5. “Lean heavily on the power of God’s Word.” Scripture ministers to us. The Psalms in particular minister to us. David often began by freely sharing his frustrations and depressed feelings, and then transitioned to praising God.
On page 128, the author lists the following Psalms: 6, 13, 18, 23, 25, 27, 31, 32, 34, 37, 38, 39, 40, 42, 43, 46, 51, 55, 57, 62, 63, 69, 71, 73, 77, 84, 86, 90, 91, 94, 95, 103, 104, 107, 110, 116, 118, 121, 123, 124, 130, 138, 139, 141, 142, 143, 146, and 147.
6. “Rest confidently in the presence of God’s Spirit.” Seek His face – His Presence. Jesus promised us the Holy Spirit, Our Comforter (John 14:16.)
This may be a really big step for someone who sees God as an angry, demanding God. I guess that’s a great topic for another post. Until then, let us hold on to the truth found in one of the most well-recognized verses in the Bible. In John 3:16 we read, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” Father God loves us so much that He allowed His Son Jesus to carry the weight of all our sins to the cross and die for us. God is Love.
I freely give the author full credit for this work. I have been greatly encouraged by it and would love others to be encouraged and helped by it. I highly recommend that you read this book. Most importantly, I wish to give the author honor for bringing this message in a way that is compassionate, sensitive, genuine, and non-confrontational. It is truth, given in love, with the sole intent of helping others.
heartofamethyst 
Great list of items to do when dealing w/ depression – thanks for sharing. – Wendy
I posted this to our Facebook group from our summer houseboats trip for teens in recovery. Many deal w/ depression and will these rememdies something to try!
@ Wendy – I am so pleased that you have shared this with others.
I had struggled with depression for many, many years. I tried everything wrong; I’m glad I’ve learned to simply turn around and see Jesus standing right there.
I chuckle when I read the steps because each seems so simple from the outside, but seem so hard when you are in the pit and scratching to get out. I hope others find strength in them.
Thanks for responding!
Wow, this is right on. I struggled with depression myself for several years. The only advice I would add is to get enough sleep. Actually these things are good to be in the practice of even if you are not depressed.
@ Julie – Yes! sleep and good hydration are absolute musts. I’m working on both 🙂
His is definitely a relational being! It’s amazing that in our connections with others we are experiencing the body of Christ as God intended us to… In relationship, fellowship and in carrying each other burdens as Christ restores us to… It actually brings us closer to our original image; made in Him, reflecting His sweet agape love to those who need it…
Thanks, Annette, for sharing your thoughts. Blogging gives us a chance to share the love of God that we are experiencing. And commenting on one another’s comments encourages and empowers.
Depression is something I’ve never truly been too concerned about and for that I am extremely grateful. That does not mean that I am ignorant to being effected by various traps that lead to depression, i.e., isolating, not seeking help and not using music as it should be used. I have seen how the enemy has tried to sneak in my life and it was encouraging to read your review. Of course, seeking His face, reading His word are always and always will be two areas that my soul cries out for and even though clouds have got in the way of my heart realizing its rightful place, hope reigns supreme and so quitting will never be an option. I pray blessings on you and your family regarding this area!
@watersword7 – “although clouds have got in the way of my heart realizing its rightful place, hope reigns supreme” AWESOME! I love that!
Of all the points made in the post, it is the music more than anything else that best helps me ward off depression. Worship and praise in music is so uplifting and really helps me get my focus off the distractions and on to God. I love your gift of music, and I love how you use it to bring glory to God. You are great!
Thank you so much for your blessings. God bless you!
This is good stuff! For years I dealt with extreme depression and had no clue what to do about it. In getting free of it I definitely had to do a lot of “pushing past” the resistance to getting up and out, worshiping, reading scripture, etc. All of those things make a big difference, and our spiritual muscles grow as we push through resistance!
It’s so true too about the importance of not just shoving the emotions down and ignoring them—a common root to depression. Just this morning God was talking to me about acknowledging to myself and to Him when I’m hurt or angry and giving it to Him so He can take care of it, rather than letting it turn to depression. Similar to what you mentioned, we can still acknowledge and deal with the emotions, even though we are forgiving the person. Thank you Lord for teaching us how to handle our emotions in a healthy manner and for giving us tools for blessing our souls to come more alive!
@ stacyjoy
Thank you for sharing your experience and for the words God spoke to you. Your transparency is so encouraging.
I spent my life stuffing my emotions deep down inside myself, where no one could see them. I needed that control; I needed to keep everyone from seeing my weakness. Why? Why did I buy into that lie?
Just as you said, there is so much freedom in acknowledging to myself and to God when I’m angry or hurt or frustrated, or whatever. He always validates my feelings, lets me pour it all out, and then He brushes away the tears and sets me back on course. It seems so effortless. It’s certainly so much easier than carrying the burden of the debilitating emotions!
Thank you again for illuminating God’s heart. Bless you!