Posted by Hombre on July 20, 2010, at 20:59:02
In reply to distance from God- sin or depression, posted by inanimate peanut on July 18, 2010, at 13:18:40
Do the best you can. Sometimes just hanging on shows a strength and faith that few can understand. When I am depressed, more than anything I need to remember that God loves us and has a purpose for our lives that we cannot always understand. Trying to understand everything, trying to know everything, trying to be in complete control -- well, we eventually learn that we are so flawed, imperfect, but beautiful.
You may not *feel* very Christian, but your actions will still be Christian. Even if it means just getting out of bed and drinking a glass of water. That act alone can show great faith because you are not giving up and you are still trying your best. But know that your suffering means a lot to God and to your brothers and sisters. Don't let your feelings confuse you. You can feel bad and yet still have hope. Not saying you don't, of course, just recognizing it.
In my darkest hours or when panic set in, repeating the Jesus Prayer and breathing rhythmically has brought relief. A technique I picked up from the Russian Orthodox and the experience of Russian combat veterans:
"Lord Jesus Christ have mercy on us sinners."
poster:Hombre
thread:954898
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/faith/20100403/msgs/955219.html