Coming back to the topic of living a life of purpose introduced in the previous post:

Not long ago I published a devotional called LIVING VICTORIOUSLY that addresses the topic of purpose for people with mental health issues. You can access it by clicking http://marjabergen.com/archives/living-victoriously

I must tell you how things have been throughout most of my Christian life. I learned – especially during my Living Room years – how important it is to try and be other-centered (rather than self-centered) when I’m depressed. When I got depressed I tried to focus on the needs of others. The depression did not immediately lift, but thinking of others helped a great deal. At least, I was able to continue my work.

The thought I held before me, even when I wished I could die, was this: “The reason I live is to give others a reason to live.” It was a powerful challenge, one that reminded me that my life has value.