Carving Hope out of Depression

Carving Hope out of Depression: Victory Over Darkness and a Path to Self-Love by David Harder offers hope for anyone who has or is suffering with depression, loneliness, hopelessness or considered suicide as a way to end the pain. His book presents hope in Jesus Christ, no matter what religion or belief system one holds, we all have different lives, encounters and experiences, yet there is one common thread we all need: Redemption in the love of God. He encourages all to look up to God for help, offering a discovery of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, shedding light on His Word, His hope, His love and offering a light to lead the way out of darkness.

Finding himself with no hope after a string of failed marriages and dashed hopes, the author writes how he once considered suicide as a way to end it all. His journey gives understanding on “how” God’s light saved him through a series of divine appointments and circumstances, presenting how seeking God saved his life. Told from a perspective to inspire readers to seek God, not their own answers to help lead them out of depression and hopelessness, the author presents Scripture, hope and truth. With a simple look at pertinent scripture verses and a simple method of choosing God’s ways instead of your own, the author shows that this will lead to new life.  

With each chapter readers will discover an introspective and reflective journey. Presenting a challenge to faith with thought-provoking insight into the truth of the Word of God, coupled with Biblical insight and stories as the author speaks the truth of God’s Word. Ending with discussion questions helps readers to assimilate and think back upon their own journey, choices, feelings and brings an understanding of the truth in Scripture.

There is one sentence that caught my eye and speaks to those who are perhaps “wise in their own estimations”. This one statement perhaps sums up what many have come to find in their own lives. “Self-reliance had failed me, and the results of my choices were glaringly awful. I convinced myself that I was hopeless, and God could not and would never love me.” This remarkable comment reflects what many may have experienced in some way or another. It’s our choices that can create life or death in our lives. The author lovingly expresses how God can redeem any soul, any situation and that it’s never too late.

While this book is in no way comprehensive on the subject of depression, or a substitute for counselling or professional measures, the author has given insight into understanding that perhaps you can’t do life alone without God…and two, you need Jesus more than you think. His book is simple, yet profound as he touches on the heartbeat of a life once lost (his) and relates how God can breathe new life into what you thought was dead. An amazing read!

This book comes as a highly recommended for just about anyone who is experiencing depression, hopelessness, loneliness and has, or is, currently contemplating suicide. There is hope.

Title: Carving Hope out of Depression: 
Victory Over Darkness and a Path to Self-Love
By: David Harder
A CBM Christian Book Review
10.0 out of 10.0 stars

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