Back in the 80s a popular song told us "Don't Worry, Be happy."

Not written for the Christian music industry, that song still has a great

message.

Most people who know me, know I always say the phrase "Worry is a

sign of atheism." What I mean is -- if God is who I believe He says He is,

then I have no reason to worry because He will take care of it.

In 1 Peter 1:8 we read, "Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and

even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with

an inexpressible and glorious joy."

If you were in the Living Room for worship this past Sunday, you had a

chance to see joy in the flesh. Diane Reilly exudes joy. Every time I see

her, she just has joy spilling over to every one she sees. The cancer she

fought did not rob her of the joy she has for life and her relationship

for Christ. I thank God for the example she is.

So why is it, some people just can't shake depression? They can't get out

of the blues?

We have a reason to be happy. We have a lot of reasons to be filled with

joy. Satan, however, wants to steal your joy because a depressed Christian

is not effective. So here are a couple of thoughts to think about when you

feel your joy slipping away:

*You are saved. You deserve death, but God made a way for you to

experience eternal life.

*You are adopted. He chose you and gave you a new life. Despite your

imperfections, He chose you to be His child and with that adoption comes

authority of God, the Father. Satan has no power over you.

*You have an advocate. Christ is on your side. When Satan tries to accuse

you, Christ says you belong to Him.

*You have a provider. God is in control, so there is no reason to worry.

He's not going to let you go without your needs, and He will never

abandon you. And, by the way, He will rise up as a defender and protector

from the enemy.

So why worry? God is in control and will take care of you.

Also, if you ever feel yourself slipping into worry and depression, hang

out for a couple of minutes with Diane Reilly. God will use her to lift

you out of the pit.

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