1. Be Real

The topic of mental health is both essential and difficult. As we continue to meet in our DNA, it’s most likely that one of us will endure a season of anxiety or depression at minimum, or perhaps something more like the challenge of mental illness. We don’t come here today to fix each other or focus on self-help. Our hope today is to grow in our capacity to care for our friends and point each other to Jesus.

2. Grow Together

This Sunday, we heard from Dr Gerry Breshears and he helped us answer the questions “What should I do if I’m depressed?” from the story of the prophet Elijah in 1 Kings 19:1-18.

As we begin, read the passage — 1 Kings 10:1-18 and ask the following questions:

What do you observe in this passage?

Have you identified with how Elijah felt before? How did you respond?

Dr Breshears described a “Depression To-do List” from this scripture story:

• Sleep
• Eat and drink
• Go to the Mountain of God (meet with God)
• Listen for the voice of God
• Speak to the Lord candidly and respectfully
• Serve in your giftings
• Connect to community

Do any of those instructions give you hope today?

Which of these steps do you think would help you in a season of depression?

3. Next Steps

Does anyone today need special prayer for this topic?

How can we support you in an ongoing way?

Additional recommended resources:

Heart Support
“My Name Is Hope” – John Mark Comer  
“Grace for the Afflicted” — Matthew S. Stanford  
To Write Love On Her Arms
Anthem of Hope