Brilliant Plan Backfires
Theme of the Week: Battling the Blues
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
 1 of 1
Key Bible Verse: Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise … promises a reward in both this life and the next (1 Timothy 4:8). Bonus Reading: Isaiah 40:27-31
Kenneth Cooper, M.D., famous for popularizing aerobic fitness, tells about a fellow who was depressed.
It seems this poor guy didn't want to live anymore, but he knew that if he committed suicide, his wife and kids wouldn't be able to collect his insurance. So he decided to "jog himself to death" so it would look as if his death was accidental.
The first evening, he put on his jogging clothes, kissed his wife and kids goodbye, and ran out the front door. But because he wasn't in very good shape, his legs gave out before his heart did. Disappointed but not dissuaded, he limped home, showered, and went to bed.
The second evening it was the same story: his legs gave out, but his heart didn't.
Every evening for the next month the fellow repeated his ritual of kissing his family goodbye and running out the front door. Then something began to happen that he hadn't expected—his depression disappeared.
If you've been feeling a little ragged, see if you can make time before a meal to go for a brisk walk or jog. Or find some other activity you enjoy. The best thing to do when you're feeling down in the mouth is get up on your feet.
— Hope Heart Newsletter
My Response: What enjoyable activity takes your mind off your troubles?
Thought to Apply: When you're depressed, the worst thing you can do is straighten up and hold your head high because then you'll start to feel better. —Charlie Brown
Adapted from Hope Heart Newsletter by permission.
Copyright © 2008 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.
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When I feel discouraged, Lord, help me make positive adjustments and pour myself into others.
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