What are some ways to handle depression?  Depression can be relieved by patiently meditating on God’s Word and expecting Him to act. It’s in the Bible, Psalm 42:6, TLB. "Yet I am standing here depressed and gloomy, but I will meditate upon Your kindness to this lovely land ..."  Yes, when we remember how God led his people in the past, how He continually shows His love to us through blessings and even through the beauties of nature, our hearts will be lightened.

What do I do if I’m feeling depressed?  Prayer is a key to handling depression. See what Samuel’s mother did in I Samuel 1:10, NIV. "In bitterness of soul, Hannah wept much and prayed to the Lord."

If I’m depressed, what do I pray about? You’ll find a surprising answer in Psalm 107:8-9, TLB. "Oh, that these men would praise the Lord for His loving kindness, and for all of His wonderful deeds! For He satisfies the thirsty soul and fills the hungry soul with good."

Praise can chase away depression. It’s true!  Look in Psalm 34:1-3, TLB. "I will praise the Lord no matter what happens, I will constantly speak of His glories and grace. I will boast of all His kindness to me. Let all who are discouraged take heart. Let us praise the Lord together, and exalt His name."

Christian music can help dispel depression. Look in Psalm 33:1-3, TLB. "Let all the joys of the godly well up in praise to the Lord, for it is right to praise Him. Play joyous melodies of praise upon the lyre and on the harp. Compose new songs of praise to Him, accompanied skillfully on the harp; sing joyfully."

Feeling depressed and discouraged doesn’t last forever. What a good thing.  Look in the Bible in Psalm 30:5, TLB. "Weeping may go on all night, but in the morning there is joy."

How does peace come? For the answer, look in Psalms 119:165, NIV. "Great peace have they who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble."  Obedience brings peace to our hearts.  If you’ve been disobedient, perhaps a talk with God, confessing your guilt will restore that peace!  Look also at 1 John 1:9, NKJV.  “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”