Our Greatest Epidemic
It’s not heart disease, cancer
or diabetes. By 2020 our greatest epidemic will be depression. Neuropsychologist
Dr. Michelle Bengston says the number suffering from depression will be greater
than heart disease, cancer, and diabetes combined.
Why such an increase?
Medical researchers don’t
know. It’s far easier to see the connection between diet and diabetes or
exercise and heart disease.
Perhaps depression is
increasing because of our comparison complex. Can Facebook take some blame for
our nation’s depression?
There is a dark side to
social media. Beth Moore said, “Our social media world is training us up for
our greatest complex. We think not only do we need to be great, we need others
to know it.”
When did we make the mistake
that thinking good is not good
enough?
Facebook reminds us of who we
wish we could be. Comparison envy.
Solomon, the wisest man in
the world, said: A heart
at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. Proverbs 14:30
Solomon’s opulent lifestyle
would have created a world of envy on Facebook. But he finally realized none of
it mattered. King Solomon ruled the land, but his wealth had ruled him.
Social media allows us to
keep up with family and friends. But as we begin 2017, let’s celebrate life
honestly. If Facebook breeds envy in your mind, it’s not worth losing the joy
in your heart.