“At this they wept again. Then Orpah kissed her mother-in-law good-by, but Ruth clung to her.”
Ruth 1:14
Depression saps our strength, especially for serving others. But only those who are strong and stable are able to effectively serve others, right?
Scripture consistently shows us a picture of sufferers serving other sufferers in the name of Jesus. Look at the Apostle Paul who penned sweet, God-breathed words of affection to the Philippians from prison.
Perhaps an even more impressive example of serving in suffering is found in Ruth 1. While Ruth’s mother-in-law Naomi is the focus of the chapter, we know that Ruth is suffering along with her. However, when given the opportunity to leave Naomi and nurse her own wounds, Ruth clings to Naomi and pledges to go with her. She wants to be with her in her suffering.
If you’re depressed, find places to serve the church and community. You might not feel like serving others, but in doing so, you will discover that Christ will change your feelings. Like Ruth and even more so, He committed in His suffering to come alongside of you. Serving others will remind you of His love.
Scripture consistently shows us a picture of sufferers serving other sufferers in the name of Jesus. Look at the Apostle Paul who penned sweet, God-breathed words of affection to the Philippians from prison.
Perhaps an even more impressive example of serving in suffering is found in Ruth 1. While Ruth’s mother-in-law Naomi is the focus of the chapter, we know that Ruth is suffering along with her. However, when given the opportunity to leave Naomi and nurse her own wounds, Ruth clings to Naomi and pledges to go with her. She wants to be with her in her suffering.
If you’re depressed, find places to serve the church and community. You might not feel like serving others, but in doing so, you will discover that Christ will change your feelings. Like Ruth and even more so, He committed in His suffering to come alongside of you. Serving others will remind you of His love.
Scripture Focus
Ruth 1:6-18
Insight
“Even if our own troubles are great, we should still serve. Jesus washed His disciples’ feet on the way to the cross.” (Timothy Keller, 2016)
Bible In A Year
- Esther 5-6
- Psalm 40
- Luke 3
