Christians experiencing depression should seek assistance for it immediately and should not assume that their mood disorder is evidence of sin or lack of faith. Just like they visit a doctor when sick, Christians suffering depression should visit their counselor to get assistance as soon as they suspect any possible issues.
Keep in mind that the Bible contains many verses reminding us that depression is not a sin, which should serve as an encouragement for those struggling with it!
What is the Bible?
The Bible is an ancient collection of 66 books that has shaped laws, culture and inspired faith across millennia. It includes wisdom literature, historical writings and prophecies as well as serving as the ultimate set of life guiding principles.
It consists of two Testaments, which reflect God’s dealings with Israel and Jesus’ ministry and teachings, respectively. The Old Testament contains 39 books while 27 canonical books compose the New Testament.
The Old Testament comprises Law Books (Leviticus and Deuteronomy), History Books (Genesis, Exodus and Joshua), Prophetic Books (Isaiah, Jeremiah and Ezekiel), Poetry Books (Psalms Ecclesiastes and Ecclesiastes) as well as Prophetic Books Isaiah Jeremiah Ezekiel). The New Testament contains Gospels as biographies of Jesus and Epistles that serve as formal letters; poetry books such as Psalms Ecclesiastes are found throughout this volume before concluding with Revelation which provides a comprehensive future forecast. All 40 authors collaborated over 1 600 years on writing these Scriptures that were initially composed using Hebrew, Koine Greek (common Greek) as well as Aramaic.
How did God handle feelings of depression?
No matter their state of mind, it is crucial for all individuals to prioritize understanding what caused their depression and seeking appropriate treatments. People with spiritual beliefs may find it useful to explore whether their depression could be due to some kind of act of karma or that their suffering is somehow justifiable.
Many times when people feel down or sad they become convinced their emotions are sinful and God is angry with them for having problems too large for Him to solve. This leads them down a path toward hopelessness and fearfulness which keeps them feeling helpless with life, hindering any connection with either Him or others.
Christians from the Bible have also struggled with depression, like Job. After losing everything he valued in a bet with Satan and feeling his happiness vanish in an instant (Job 3), Job fell into despair wishing for death (Job 3). Following Elijah’s incredible success against Baal prophets (1 Kings 19:4) he too fell into depression, beseeching God to end his life (1 Kings 19:4).
What are the causes of depression?
Depression has many causes, some physical while others chemical. A chemical imbalance in the brain may contribute to depression; sometimes medication can help. Others experience it due to loss or tragedy; still others feel burdened by poverty or unemployment; yet still others can be burdened by unconfessed sin.
No matter the source, all depressive experiences can be extremely distressful and disempowering. They may leave someone feeling empty and hopeless with feelings of worthlessness or guilt; hopelessness and despair ensue, possibly even leading to suicidal ideations.
People suffering from depression need people in their lives who can support, encourage and pray for them. Comfort can be found in Scripture as well as Jesus; those suffering need to know they are loved by Him no matter the source.
What is the cure for depression?
Whenever feeling depressed, it’s essential to seek support from others. Reach out to friends or family, church leaders or a counselor; seek immediate assistance if considering self harm; avoid alcohol and drugs as much as possible; make an effort to eat regularly, exercise regularly and spend time with people you trust; but remember it can take time before feeling better.
Many Christians struggle with depression, but the Bible provides much-needed hope. It reminds us of God’s faithful love for those suffering, while warning against seeking fulfillment through temporary things like pleasure, wealth, knowledge or power. Solomon in Ecclesiastes laments “nothing gives me satisfaction”. To turn away from Him in favor of ourselves or things can lead to sin; depression should never be used as an excuse for doing this; to minister effectively is by emphasizing Christ’s grace rather than seeking an explanation for their pain.