Biblical Answer

Can our daily choices bring joy to others when we're feeling anxious when we're feeling overwhelmed?

Joy is not the opposite of depression, but rather deeper than it. This means that even when we're feeling depressed or anxious, we can still experience joy. Depression is like a relentless rain, but joy is like a rock that we can stand on. We can experience both depression and joy simultaneously.

When we're feeling anxious or overwhelmed, it's easy to get caught up in our own problems and worries. But, as the Bible says, "Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart" (Ps. 37:4). This means that our joy is not just a feeling, but a choice. We can choose to focus on the things that bring us joy, even when we're feeling overwhelmed. This might mean taking time to pray, meditate, or practice gratitude. It might mean doing something creative or serving others.

As we practice joy, it can become a source of strength and comfort in times of anxiety or depression. It's not something that we can force or manufacture, but rather something that grows over time as we add to it. As the Bible says, "You can never use joy up, and it actually increases the more you seek it" (Ps. 37:4). So, even when we're feeling anxious or overwhelmed, we can still choose to seek joy and bring it to others. This might mean sharing our joy with a friend or loved one, or simply being present with someone who is struggling. By choosing to focus on joy, we can bring hope and comfort to others, even in the midst of our own struggles.