~ The Loving Counselor ~

[Lani]

Philippians 4:4-9
4 Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.
5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.
6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.


Jesus said, “Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I will give you… Do not be worried or upset; do not be afraid.” John 14:27 (TEV)



Not long ago, my sister-in-law phoned to tell me that my younger brother had committed suicide. I was shocked. Later I had to break the devastating news to my elderly parents. We all are still totally grief-stricken – even more so because 20 years ago my older brother also committed suicide.

All four children in my family have bipolar disorder. I am blessed that my degree of this illness is mild compared to that of my siblings. I am also most blessed that I have always believed in the Lord. Follow-up visits to the psychiatrist are necessary for proper medication and counseling. In times of distress when there is no one to help or any medication beyond what I already take, knowing the Lord helps me the most. So whenever I am depressed, I reach for my Bible. God always talks to me through the Bible, which uplifts me in my moments of distress. I feel the presence of the Lord with me, and peace of mind follows.

I believe that no matter how sick or healthy we are, we all need the Lord, especially in times of sadness, worry or depression. Reading God’s word prepares us physically, mentally, and spiritually to live every day to the fullest.


Prayer: Faithful God, help us to learn to lean on you, especially when life feels meaningless. Calm our troubled minds with your peace. Amen.

Prayer Focus of Day: Those contemplating suicide.

Thought for the Day: God is eager to speak peace to every trouble heart.

Story shared by: D. Yeung (Thailand)
Source: Upper Room Daily Devotional: 11/20/11