You're listening to Encounter, a simple daily podcast to help you find the sacred in

the ordinary.

We have 100 meditation episodes on this podcast, but if you want to listen for free to the

entire library of 500, I encourage you to download the Encountering Peace mobile app where

all the meditations are free as they should be.

A diagnosis of clinical depression is a serious problem in our society.

It's been reported that mild or severe depression affects more people in our culture than any

other emotional disorder.

An estimated 30 to 40 million Americans, twice as many women as men, will experience

depressive illness at least once.

The disorder is so common that it's called the common cold of mental illness.

It should not be surprising that the Bible has much to say about depression, and that is

our theme for this meditation from Psalm chapter 42, dealing with depression.

A thorough biblical study on the topic of depression would consume the entire podcast, so this

is not an exhaustive reflection.

If you have concerns or questions about your own or maybe a friend's mental illness,

then you should consult a physician or therapist.

But for this short biblical meditation, Psalms chapter 42 and 43 will give us some solid

divine counsel.

As we begin, feel peace knowing that you are secure here, covered by the Word of God.

And in the presence of the living incarnate Word that is His Son, there is only hope

here.

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