What does the Bible say about depression and deep discouragement
Feeling deeply sad or drained for a long stretch of time is a real experience, and the Bible does not ignore it or treat it lightly.
Feeling deeply sad or drained for a long stretch of time is a real experience, and the Bible does not ignore it or treat it lightly.
1. People in the Bible went through this too
The prophet Elijah, right after a great victory, fell into such deep discouragement that he asked God to take his life. 1 Kings 19:4 (KJV) says, “It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.” God did not scold him. He gave him rest, food, and company before He spoke to him.
2. It is alright to ask God why
Psalm 42:11 (KJV) expresses that inner struggle honestly: “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him.” The psalmist does not pretend to be fine, he names the weight he feels and still chooses to keep hoping in God.
3. God draws especially close in that moment
Psalm 34:18 (KJV) says, “The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” The Bible does not describe God pulling away from someone who is suffering, it describes Him coming closer.
4. God also works through other people
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (KJV) calls God “the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation.” That comfort often arrives through a friend, a family member, a counselor, or a professional that God places along the way.
Keep reading
Take GodCalm with you
Audio Bible, daily devotional, prayer, and Christian books for the whole family.
