I deal with discouragement and depression.  Here's what helps me:

First:  I got out of leadership.  Those endless, do nothing Elders meetings, blah.  I quit doing anything I couldn't do by myself and just concentrated on what I could do. I reluctantly changed churches because the stifling personalities of those in charge, but also because of a departure from sound doctrine.

I hang with the kids.  I teach Sunday school. 

They are so honest and open.  They want to learn things I know.  It's fun to help them.  They help me by making me feel valuable to them.

Today my wife and I taught number 5 in a series of eight parenting cl.  The attendees shared how the methods they are learning are changing the relationships with their kids.  Sweet.  I like being effective.

Sometime I go camping by myself or with my son.  We spend many hours in Bible study and prayer, spiritual discussion around the camp fire.

I live openly before God, flaws and all.  Anger, resentment,, he hears it all.  I've learned to leave a lot of stuff in his hands do deal with as he see's fit.

Finally, after eight years (maybe longer) I got a ski pass.

What do you do with your depression?

Coconut Mountain Communications

kevinophoff@coconutmtn.com

Discouragement WILL come. For some more often than others, but rest assure it will come. It is part of the "trouble" Jesus said we would face in this world. With over 20 years in ministry I know I've had and still have my share of discouragement and depression/oppression. It is important that we realize and accept that discouragement is part of Satan's arsenal to bring down the man/woman of God and (sometimes with success) prevent them from fulfilling God's call on their lives. His ultimate goal of course is to prevent others from witnessing the life changing power of Jesus Christ. If he can get us to "hang our towels" then it's not just us who are defeated, but all those who can benefit from our faithfulness to God and ministry.

So the FIRST thing I think about when I just about had it is precisely that. I think of those whose live will be affected as a result of my "giving up". First there is my family. As a leader both in the home and church they look up to me for encouragement, support and example. Second there is the children (I'm a Children/Youth Pastor). I have poured out so much into their lives already that for some I have become the father they never had. To others even a spiritual father. This does not mean that they never see the weak side of me. On the contrary I share with them my discouragements, pains and uncertainties when they come. It is rewarding to see how God uses those who you have ministered to to minister back to you in times of need.

Second, I take time to cry. Yes, to literally cry and let it all out. I cry out to God and I tell him how I feel (something he's been waiting for). I tell him that I CAN'T and WON'T take it any more. That I have had enough with the pressures, the ungratefulness, the lack of help, religious bureaucracy, etc., etc. The first problem with that is that God did not force me into this path. He called me and I just obeyed (followed). So, while he may not want me to give up he leaves it entirely up to me. The second problem is that it was HE who gave me the passion, so I have no choice but to follow the voice of my heart which always tell me, "it's not by might or by power, but by my Spirit." Yes, I feel renewed every time I cry out to him and turn to his Word. I feel a sense of help and power that in inexplicable. I am reminded that it was HE who called me and not man. That it is HE who will sustain me in and through it all.

Thirdly, I seek prayer and advice from others in ministry. Like I said, we have ALL been there and not only to grow and learn, but to share what we have learned with others. This board has been an extension of God's loving arms and soothing voice. Whether it's been a simple concern or a HUGE disheartening situation I have been able to find peace and strength from the prayers and encouragement of other soldiers who have also been wounded in battle. It is amazing the way God uses us to uplift one another.

And lastly, I engage in something creative. Of course that comes natural when you have been gifted with creativity, but that does not mean you can't find a way to let your mind focus (for a little while) in something other than ministry. You might be surprised that even in this temporary shift of focus God can confirm your ministry call!

Remember, if it was God who called you He is and will always be on your side. He will be your strength and shield. Your call may even be for a season, but he will still be there till you fulfil his plan. Perhaps the time will come when he calls you to do something else somewhere else, but as long as he has gifted you with talents you are to use them, invest them in the lives of others and be faithful till the end. Even if you think you haven't been given much all you want to hear him say is, "...Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master." Matt. 25:23.

Science and the Bible - The Bible is not a Science Text yet it is consistent with scientific facts 
        Science - Precision of movement in the universe                                                                
        Bible - Jeremiah 31:35,36