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Depression is common nowadays. Spending a lot of time on smartphones may make us feel more alone. Since almost everything can be bought online and foods are easily accessible from a grocery, we do not need to interact with much people in order to survive. The thought that we do not matter to anyone is also one of the causes of depression. In the past, being in a community of 50-100 is almost essential to survive. Today, being in a community is not much needed in order to survive. We can work, buy groceries, get foods, buy clothes, and almost everything can be done online. Lack of Meaning Depression usually happens with a lack of hope. When we feel that our lives lack meaning, there can be less desire to do anything. Feeling of hopelessness over time without pursuing anything worthwhile may be a contributing factor to depression. Find Hope in Christ We can ask God to lead us to what His plans are for our lives. Instead of thinking about what we can do, focus on what God can do to your life. Our life on Earth is temporary. Eventually, God will take everyone who knows Him and believes in Him to heaven to be with Him on eternity. Look forward to the future when we will see God face to face and be with Him forever. Jesus have overcome death. Whatever problems we have, God is surely capable of helping us to overcome it. God may allow life problems to call our attention and grow as a person. Remember that life on Earth is short and temporary. We have to make the most of our time and be useful to God and other people. At some point, we will give an account to God based on what we have done on the resources He entrusted us (time, abilities, etc.) Consider the Parable of Talents on Matthew 25:14-30 where the master have entrusted two and five talents to two servants which have grown it to four and ten talents respectively. On the other hand, one servant who was entrusted with one talent did not use it. No matter how much abilities and time God have entrusted us, may we use and make the most of it. Pray to God about Depression Praying to God and telling Him how you are feeling will help. Jesus is willing to listen to us. Since He created the heavens and the Earth, He can surely do anything. "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."Philippians 4:6-7 Also, we can ask God in prayer how can we be useful to others and to Him. Ask God to help us overcome depression and find meaning and direction on our lives. Actionable Tips 1. Read the Bible Start reading 1-2 chapters per day of the Bible. The books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John on the Bible tells what Jesus have done on Earth 2,000 years ago. These four books is a good start. Starting with 10-15 minutes a day reading the bible can add up over time. Eventually, we can build a habit of reading the bible everyday. 2. Set a Goal Setting up even small goals is a big first step. Sleeping a full 7-8 hours a day and actively trying to eat goods foods with more fruits and vegetables and less processed foods may help us feel better. Also, achieving small accomplishments such as sleeping 7-8 hours a day can give you some sense of accomplishment moving forward. Starting with small goals and moving to medium and big goals is a realistic approach to solve a problem. 3. Think about Possible Long-Term Plans and How you can do God's will on your life A lack of meaning in life can be attributed to depression. Thinking about possible long term goals, preferably writing on paper, is a decent first step to find meaning in your life. For example, visualize 5 possible scenarios of where will you be 10-20 years from now. Imagine each scenario and how God might use you for each scenario. Visualizing the future may help you be motivated and potentially find a long-term plan that suits you. Consider your interests such as the things that you like to spend time and things that you are good at. God gave us different abilities which is unique for everyone. 4. Take a Walk Walking around for even 30-60 minutes a day can make us feel better. Breathing some fresh air outside and getting your muscles exercised can help. While walking, you can relax and wonder on thoughts about your life and the future. 5. Connect with a Local Church This may seem tough especially when you are depressed. Before going, pray to God to help you find a local church where you can find some people to share life experiences. When ready, try to attend a Sunday service and go to their Welcome Centre to inquire more information. Finding and building relationships with even a small group of 5-10 Christians can help us solve our life problems and deepen our relationship with Jesus. 6. Listen to Christian Songs Christian songs can help us remember who God is. God is the Lord of lords and King of kings who created the heavens and the Earth and everything in it. Also, reflecting about God can make us feel more peaceful and relax, knowing that God is in control of our lives and is the same yesterday, today, and forever.