By Dr. Dan Morris
Recently, following the tragic suicidal death of national known American actor, comedian, film producer and screenwriter Robin Williams, we have been made more aware of the large percentage of our population having difficulty with depression. The research indicates one in 10 people suffers from depression. It is a major factor in the health of individuals and families. It is something that doesn’t just affect the weak or the other person. When the truth is known, we each have to admit that there are times that we have to deal with personal depression in our personal life or one of our family members. Often, there is misunderstanding. Therefore, we keep it quiet and very private.
Sometimes, people think if they are a Christian or have strong faith in God they will not have to deal with depression. Obviously, positive faith is an essential factor to give spiritual peace and abundant joy. However, Christians suffer with depression just as all humans do. It affects Christians just as it affects unbelievers.
Although there are some practices and some Biblical principles and researched studies to move us through the dark days and encourage our hearts, we have to admit our needs and understand the spiritual, mental, emotional and physical factors. Depressed people can feel sad, anxious, empty, hopeless, worried, helpless, worthless, guilty, irritable, hurt or restless. Depression is often a normal reaction to certain life events, a symptom of some medical conditions, or a side effect of some drugs or medical treatments. Our institute plans to offer a seminar and a continual support group related to depression.
BLI Biblical Leadership Institute not only provides certificates and certification for courses and internships in Christian church work, but also, we provide training for people to serve in the community. Someone can get a certificate of study, on-site training and certification to serve in one of the wonderful community Christian organizations in Plant City and East Hillsborough.
We continue the seminary and college-degree courses providing degrees and certificates under the Biblical Studies Division. However, we also are moving forward with a roll out of new courses, seminars and internships for men and women under the Biblical Leadership Division. A person does not have to be a called minister, preacher or missionary to take courses with us or have to take a course for a grade and have tests. We are here for each person to improve his or her knowledge of the Bible as God’s word. One can experience a more dynamic faith and relationship with God.
This week, you can enjoy taking a Biblical studies class with us and discover a new joy through deeper faith in the Lord who created you and loves you. Just go online at BiblicalLeadershipInstitute.com select, enroll and enjoy a fall study with us.
Each month, BLI will offer opportunities to meet a variety of needs. Our roll out in September will include offering Dave Ramsey financial courses to help individuals and families with the needs related to achieving financial peace. We will have a beginning Spanish class to help in communicating with the more than 30% Hispanic population in Plant City. Then, we will offer an English course to the Hispanic students. There will be several seminars and courses to meet your personal need.
Currently, we invite those who would provide leadership by organizing a team of volunteers from our churches and community to help with minor house repairs for the elderly, or those who are unable to do for themselves, to join in our weekly planning.
We meet at 11:30 a.m. Thursdays, at 501 Baker St.. We’re also planning a kickoff rally for Carefest Day from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at McCall Park. We invite anyone who would value serving God by helping people to join us.
BLI Biblical Leadership Institute is your local equipping center to allow you not only to study the Bible as the word of God but also to place your faith into practice. These are practices that will transform your life and the life of those around you. Come and enjoy the experience. You can contact us online at BiblicalLeadershipInstitute.org or call us at (813) 659-1903.
Dr. Dan Morris Sr. is president of Biblical Leadership Institute. BLI was founded in 2007 as the Evangelical University and Seminary.