ToddGaddisBook_October2023_8.5x5.5.indd

appeared, providing the apostle with instruction and assurance (Acts 27:24). It may not be through an audible voice or by an angel; nevertheless, God still speaks–most likely through His Word and the Holy Spirit in our day. Pastor and author Rick Warren advises those facing difficult circumstances: “If you are depressed, take your Bible and go to the ocean or to a lake or out in the country. Sit down and read your Bible, and get alone with God. Just let God love you and speak to you. Let Him meet your needs, and let yourself feel His pres ence.There is no greater antidepressant than communication and fellowship with God.” 3 Even if you can’t make it to the ocean, lake, orcountry, avail yourself to the Lord and prepare for His presence. Move ahead in the work- God told Elijah to “Go, return on your way to the wilderness . . . anoint Jehu . . .king over Israel . . .and Elisha . . . you shall anoint as prophet in your place” (1 Kings 19: 15-16). Do you sense that sense of hope as Elijah receives new marching orders? Dejection turns to discovery. Oppression becomes opportuni ty, and then obedience. There’s nothing like what I call “the tonic of a fresh task.” I can’t tell you the number of times that a call to minister to a hurt ing family, an unexpected speaking engagement, sharing the plan of salvation, a new writing opportunity, and more have delivered me from the dungeon of discouragement. When asked what to do when getting close to a nervous breakdown, psychiatrist Karl Mennibnger said, “Lock your house, go across the railroad tracks, find someone in need and do some thing for him.” 4 God wants you to experience life to its fullest and defeat de-

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