Matthew 15:31

According to the dictionary, thanksgiving is an expression of gratitude, especially to God. It is easy for us to be thankful when things are wonderful, but the real test comes when trials arise in our lives. However, when we choose to be thankful in the most dreadful of situations, it is an invitation for the God of Miracles to show up and move on our behalf.

There are some names in the Bible that everyone knows: Adam and Eve, Noah, Moses, Mary, Peter, Paul. But the Bible is also full of stories with unnamed characters. People who made a difference not in the spotlight, but in the shadows. We often think they and we are insignificant if the spotlight is not on. But here's the good news: God chooses and uses shadow Christians.

Throughout the New Testament, Jesus shows compassion toward unlikely “sinners” who expressed great faith. Whether tax collectors, Roman centurions, or Samaritan women, Jesus repeatedly shows that he came to rescue people burdened with shame. During this plan, Bible teacher and author Kat Armstrong illustrates how these stories strengthen our understanding of God’s empathy and knowledge of how all types of people express beautiful faith in Jesus.

The World Health Organization estimates 350 million people suffer from depression globally, and depression knows no religious, racial, gender, or economic boundaries. But, depression does have boundaries in terms of how it affects your life! As we journey towards a better understanding of depression and options you have, Dr. Bergina shares her knowledge and Biblical wisdom so that you too can put limits on depression and move towards complete recovery. The content in this devotional is taken from the book Victory Over Depression With and Without Medicines by Dr. Bergina Isbell. You can find more information about the book at https://bit.ly/vodbook and Dr. Bergina at https://bit.ly/drberginahome .