Lessons for Life with James Long, Jr.
Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join James, a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life's biggest questions and helps us find God's solutions to life's struggles. Learn the power of living by God's grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are on a search for freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!
Lessons for Life with James Long, Jr.
UD - Day 2 - Dark Night of the Soul
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Are you seeking hope, wisdom, and practical solutions to life’s challenges? Dr. James Long, Jr., pastor, counselor, and professor with over 30 years of experience, helps people discover God’s solutions to emotional, relational, and spiritual challenges. Each episode of Lessons for Life points you to the peace and freedom found in Jesus Christ.
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The Dark Night of the Soul. Finding God in the Darkness Day 2. This is Day 2 of our devotional series Understanding Depression. The scripture that we will be considering today is Psalm 34, verses 17-18. Depression can feel like a never-ending night. It often brings a sense of darkness, isolation and haunting thoughts that things will never change. Even when surrounded by people, the internal struggles can make us feel profoundly alone. The Bible acknowledges this depth of pain and offers hope to those who are struggling. Psalm 34, verse 17-18, says when the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. Psalm 34, verse 17-18, says these verses are not just comforting words but a promise of God's active presence in our darkest moments.
Speaker 1One of the greatest lies depression tells us is that God is far away. The Bible reveals the exact opposite. God is not distant in our pain. He is actually near. He draws us closer to the brokenhearted and he moves towards those who are crushed in spirit. When Jesus walked on the earth, he was known as a man of sorrow and acquainted with grief Isaiah 53.3. He understands our pain intimately, not only because he is God, but because he felt it as a man. This truth offers a unique comfort. Jesus does not just see our pain. He feels it with us.
Speaker 1Finding God in the darkness often involves small, intentional steps. It might be whispering a prayer when you cannot find the strength for more. It could mean reading a verse and letting it be a lifeline or truth in a sea of despair. Sometimes it means simply sitting in silence, trusting that God is with you, even when you cannot feel his presence. God is not afraid of your darkness. He shines a light into it. He brings comfort and a promise of a new dawn to you. Now here's the action step Take a few moments today and sit in silence before God. Breathe deeply and focus on the truth that he is near, even when you feel Well. Here's a prayer In your son's matchless name. We pray Amen.
Speaker 1Depression can feel like dark and an endless tunnel, but God's word shines a light of hope and healing. This devotional series will guide you through scripture to find encouragement and comfort and practical steps towards overcoming depression. Through biblical truths and the power of God's promises, you can break free from the despair and embrace the renewed sense of purpose and joy in your life. Discover more of this devotional series and other resources that will help you grow and experience God's peace at my website, jameslongjrorg. That's jameslongjrorg. For deeper support and community. Consider joining our Lessons for Life, monthly membership or our group coaching program. You can go to jameslongjrorg slash. Sign up now for that. You're not alone. There's hope and healing through God's promises. We'll take care and be blessed.