What does the Bible say about depression?
Have you ever wondered that?
It actually has a lot to say if you’re willing to look.
God Meets Us in Our Need
Let’s start in 1 Kings with one of God’s most faithful and well known prophets, Elijah. Elijah was being hunted by Jezebel and he was ready to give up and die (1 Kings 19:4). He prayed for God to take his life, if that’s not depression, I don’t know what is.
So what was God’s response?
God sent an angel to meet Elijah where he was. He didn’t tell him to do better, buck up, or rejoice. He simply met him where he was and met his needs.
Sometimes, I think that’s what God wants to do for us as well.
After I had Covid in 2021, I was very depressed. I had come to Heaven’s door and God saved my life, and I didn’t know what to do with that. As weird as it sounds, Covid was a mountain top experience for me because I was so close to Jesus, but after every mountain top comes a valley. I didn’t blog or write much of anything for over a year. But during that time, God met me where I was. He didn’t ask for more of me than I felt I had to offer, He just reminded me that He was there. That’s how I picture Elijah in the wilderness.
God Lifts Our Burdens
For 40 days God sent an angel to minister him. Then, when Elijah had had time to rest, God spoke to him. Again, He didn’t tell Elijah what was needed, but told him how to find a replacement. Elijah was spent, and God understood.
Read more: 1 Kings 19
However, that feeling is completely different than what I went through when I had chronic migraines for five years. Through it all, I worked as much as I could, even when my head hurt.
Related Post: Hope for When You Feel Like Giving Up On Life
Sometimes God refreshes our spirit, and other times He lifts our burdens.
God Restores Our Souls
When Israel was exiled in Babylon, God sent a prophet to remind them that He was capable of being everything they needed. He said, “but they who wait for the Lord will renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31, ESV.
Time and again in the Psalms, David prayed for God to give him strength. David credited God for refreshing his soul.
Read more: Psalm 68:9; Psalm 23; Psalm 19:7; Psalm 51:12; Psalm 60:1; Psalm 80; Psalm 85:4
What Does The Bible Say About Depression?
When the Bible talks about depression, it doesn’t give a one-size-fits-all answer. It meets each person where they are. Lifting burdens and restoring spirits, God never abandons those who love Him. He really can use all things for good for those who love Him (Romans 8:28), even depression.
Join the Conversation
What does the Bible say about depression? Have you found any relevant verses that would help our study? Please share them or leave your comments below.
