Now we can overcome the world and its moods by using the stabilizing, strengthening tool of prayer several times a day. Please turn to Philippians 4 and we are going to read verses 6 and 7.
So that is a guarantee we have. It is very important to show our thanksgiving in our prayers, to thank God for what He has given us, with the blessings He has provided. God promises He will guard us and give us peace of mind, but we must ask in faith, believing God's promise. We ask in what we think is faith, but we do not believe - truly believe - in God's promises, then our faith is useless.
He knows no one can grow out of depression with unforgiven guilt hanging over his head. Paul encourages us in Philippians 3:13 to forget our past guilt for the sins and mistakes that we have previously made and repented of, and to reach for our future spiritual goals and godly character.
The Bible contains many encouraging and inspiring examples of the faith of people who faced virtually insurmountable odds and yet overcame with God's help. Still they had to ask in prayer, in faithful prayer. The Bible reveals God's greatness and the vastness of His master plan which He has lovingly designed for the entire universe. It shows His mercy, His compassion, and lovingkindness for His creation. It shows that God promises to provide all our needs and does not want us discouraged.
Let us turn over to Romans 15, verse 4. The more we read His written Word, the more we adopt the mind of God. It is God speaking to us. And this is why daily Bible study is essential. We need to make the Bible the foundation of our behavior and the basis for sound, uplifting thoughts that dispel discouragement.
