What Are You Thinking About?

Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. –

Philippians 4:8

Some people have experienced depression that hinders the activities of daily life. Have you experienced such debilitation? According to the National Institute of Mental Health, “In 2020, an estimated 14.8 million U. S. adults aged 18 or older had at least one major depressive episode with severe impairment in the past year.” Depression has many causes or conditions that contribute to or exacerbate it. But some depressive states are due to negative thoughts. Feelings of hopelessness, foreboding, or being overwhelmed often stem from thoughts of failure, seemingly unsolvable problems, or low self-esteem.

The verse is vital to emotional wellbeing. Maintaining thoughts that are centered on the truth of the Scriptures, and things that are good, beautiful, praiseworthy, and not dwelling on evil can help you live each day with a healthy perspective. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” Positive affirmations from Scripture can be a lifeline to those who are susceptible to depression. Scriptures such as Deuteronomy 31:8 (God is with you), Psalm 42:11 (God is your hope), Isaiah 41:10 (God is your strength), Ephesians 1:6 (God accepts you in Christ), and 1 John 3:1 (God adopted you into His family) can keep your soul in a healthy place.

Today, minds are bombarded with topsy-turvy thoughts from films, television, social media, and news which are difficult to navigate without the Lord’s help.

Meditate on who you are in Jesus.