A new song

"He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him." Psalm 40:2,3 NIV

Could being obese actually cause you to be depressed? For years, studies have shown that the two conditions were related but which condition came first remained unclear. But a new study published in the International Journal of Epidemiology revealed that for every 4.7-point increase in BMI above the normal range, the risk of depression increased by 18 percent overall, and by 23 percent in women. But take heart. Researchers concluded by saying, "Just because you might have a genetic predisposition to obesity, that doesn’t mean depressive symptoms can’t be alleviated through lowering your BMI. So keeping up with your exercise program is definitely recommended."

Unfortunately, there are thousands of other reasons people can get depressed - life trials, genetics, low self esteem or situations that can't be alleviated by simply lowering a BMI or keeping up with an exercise program. David was a man who certainly understood what it was like to experience extreme periods of deep sadness. In fact, David had many episodes of intense depression where he would cry out to the Lord. And when he did, not only did God hear David's cries but He lifted him "out of the slimy pit," restored his joy, and gave him a new song to sing. 

Perhaps you're experiencing a time of deep sadness today too? Maybe because of the death of a loved one, the loss of a job, a divorce or an unexpected illness? Whatever the cause my friend, God knows your hurt and He feels your pain. And, like He did for David, wants to give you a "new song... a hymn of praise" if you'll simply cry out to Him?

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that You are more than able to restore the joy we have lost and are waiting for us to cry out to be rescued. Help us to be patient and hopeful as wait for that restoration. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Psalm 40 - Newsong

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oUtJ2VsJWWw