John was a successful businessman whose wife was suffering from depression. "She spends most mornings in bed, and in the afternoons, she just sits around the house," he said. "She seems to have no ambition. She doesn't have the energy to cook, and many nights she doesn't eat with us. She has lost forty pounds over the last year. To be truthful, life is pretty miserable at our house. I feel sorry for the kids, although they get more attention than I do. But I know they must wonder what is wrong with their mother."

What John described matches some fo the classic characteristics of depression. Unfortunately, depression is quite common and does not go away simply with the passing of time. John's wife needed medical and psychological help - without it, things would get even worse.

Many Christians don't understand depression and think it is only a spiritual problem. While it may have a spiritual dimension, it is often rooted in physical and emotional imbalance. If this is an issue for you or your loved one, remember Psalm 34:18. The Bible promises that the Lord has compassion for you and deals tenderly with you in your time of depression.

Take time to pray, asking God...

To help you be aware of difficult and dark emotions;

To help you recognize and properly respond to warning signs of depression.

If you have more time, discuss together or reflect on these questions:

What is (or has been) your attitude toward those who struggle with depression?

Have you ever wondered if you or your spouse may suffer from depression?

If you or your spouse struggle with depression, what help are you willing to explore?

Consider these passages for further study on depression:

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

1 Peter 3:7 Husbands, in the same way, be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.

More questions on showing kindness:

1. Share a time when someone expressed kindness to you. How did that kindness change you or your relationship with that person?
2. Read Psalm 36:5-12. In what ways would you say God is kind to His people?
3. Jesus spoke of the value of giving "a cup of cold water" to someone in need (Matthew 10:42). Why did Jesus call attention to such a small gesture?
4. In what ways did Jesus show love in doing something kind for others? Name some ways Jesus has shown kindness to you.
5. Why do acts of kindness draw others to God?
6. Share an example of when your unkind actions could have potentially turned someone away from God.

Psalm 36:7 How precious is your unfailing love, O God! All humanity finds shelter in the shadow of your wings.

Challenge

God's kindness should motivate us to be kind to others. Still, sometimes, we are least kind to those who live under the same roof as us. Find two opportunities to show extra kindness to your spouse in the next forty-eight hours. If you need ideas, just ask them!

Gary Chapman's thoughts are great. By keeping awareness, love, and kindness in the forefront, our prayers will be listened to.