What Does the Bible Say About Depression?

Although it’s not always possible to find Bible verses directly related to what we’re going through, depression is an exception to that. If you’re wondering, “What does the Bible say about depression?” this article is for you.

Of course, a diagnosis of depression didn’t exist in Bible times, but there are many examples of biblical characters suffering from sadness, hopelessness, weariness, and other depressive symptoms, along with passages about how they related to God during their depression.

Whether you’re experiencing grief, temporary sadness, situational depression, major depressive disorder, or another form of depression, the Bible offers hope. So while on the one hand, we can ask, “What does the Bible say about depression?” on the other hand we can also look for what the Bible says about hope. They are two sides of the same coin since depression steals our hope and hope can overshadow sadness.

The Bible also offers many comforting words about God’s love for us during difficult times in life. Even when we are walking through suffering and sadness, we don’t have to go through it alone. Scripture informs our depression treatment and it’s the only inspired tool that connects us to God. There are many ways to connect with Scripture, including through music, Christian meditation, prayer, and more.

Keep reading to learn more about a Scriptural approach to depression that is informed by evidence-based therapy techniques.

A Definition

Here is a clear explanation of depression from Psychiatry.org:

“Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think, and how you act. Fortunately, it is also treatable. Depression causes feelings of sadness and/or a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease your ability to function at work and at home.” (Psychiatry.org, emphasis added)

This most common form of depression is what we are usually referring to when we speak of depression in general. (There are other forms of depression as well; individual counseling can help you become more informed about which one might apply to you.)

What is the difference between depression and grief, or temporary sadness? We all experience shifts in mood throughout the different seasons of our lives. Here’s what Medical News Today says:

“Depression often persists in spite of a change of circumstances and causes feelings that are intense, chronic, and not proportional to a person’s circumstances.”

Whether you think you may be dealing with medical depression, grief, or difficulty adjusting to a life transition, individual Christian counseling offers the benefits of psychotherapy in a faith-based environment.

What Does the Bible Say About Depression?

Have you ever wondered, “What does the Bible say about depression?” The main thing to know about depression in the Bible is that suffering is a part of life. God does not promise us prosperity in this life, but he does promise that he will be with us through the storms. Here are some comforting Bible verses about depression and difficult times:

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. – John 16:33, NIV

Jesus was speaking to his disciples before he died, so we know that he is saying even his followers will have trouble in their earthly lives. His encouragement to his disciples, and us today, is that he offers us peace and the knowledge that he is greater than all the troubles we will face. This is the foundation of our hope.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. – Psalm 23:4, NIV

David is expressing his trust in the Lord that no matter what he walked through, he knew that God would be with him. No matter what form your dark valley takes, God’s presence is available to you during that valley.

You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light. – Psalm 18:28, NIV

Depression can be described as a form of darkness, and in this state, it’s difficult to see hope, or light, in your future. Here we can see David describing God lighting up his darkness. We can trust and seek God to do the same for us.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10, NIV

These words from God to his people are incredibly comforting. In the face of depression and anxiety, it can feel like all we know is fear and sadness. God comforts his people with the truth of his strength, his willingness to help, and his power to uphold.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. – Romans 15:13, NIV

In this benediction written by Paul in his letter to the Roman Christians, we see how God works to create hope, joy, and peace through his power. Amid depression, it’s easy to feel like hope, joy, and peace are out of reach. In this passage, we see that as Christians, our part is simply to trust. God is the one who supplies joy and peace, and he is called the God of hope.

The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. – Deuteronomy 31:8, NIV

Again in this Bible verse for depression, we see God’s presence with his people. And not only is he with them, but he also goes before them. This means he is leading, guiding, and making a way. We do not have to make the way for ourselves.

Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. – Psalm 42:11, NIV

In this passage, the psalmist encourages his soul to hope in God, knowing that no matter how downcast he feels, he can still take joy in the character and promises of God.

We can also see in these verses that the reality of God’s presence and the joy and peace He brings does not immediately “cure” or erase depression. Rather, as we trust in him, he works in us all along the journey. He does not leave us where we are, and we can rest in the knowledge that He will supply what we need every day.

We also see that depression is not a sin. Sadness and being “downcast” or in need of comfort are not condemned in Scripture. The Bible speaks to a broad spectrum of human experiences and emotions. The fallenness of the world we live in means that sometimes not only are our bodies broken, but our minds can experience that brokenness as well.

Christian Counseling for Depression

We believe that part of God’s provision for the brokenness of depression is counseling and sometimes even medication. Bible verses about depression are not a cure-all. Platitudes like, “Everything happens for a reason,” or, “God won’t give you more than you can handle” don’t hold up against the weightiness of the suffering we face in this world.

But what God does give us is his presence. And, since all believers are the hands and feet of Jesus in this world, the counselors at Carrollton Christian Counseling see their work not just as work, but as a ministry.

The good news about depression is that it is highly treatable. According to Psychiatry.org, around 80-90% of people with depression eventually experience relief. Whether that comes through time, prayer, self-help strategies such as exercise and sleep hygiene, individual counseling, medication, or a combination of multiple approaches, you are not alone in your struggle with depression, and you do not have to get through it by yourself.

At Carrollton Christian Counseling, we believe God will walk with you through every season of doubt and despair, and we are here to walk alongside you as well. If you would like to start your journey of healing, call our office today to schedule a risk-free initial session.