Biblical Answer

The Bible speaks to depression in several ways. First, it acknowledges that depression is a real experience that can be caused by a variety of factors, including death, sin, and spiritual darkness. In Psalm 42:5-6, David writes, "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God." This passage shows that even in the midst of depression, we can still put our hope in God and trust in His goodness. Additionally, the Bible teaches that God is sovereign over all things, including our emotions and circumstances. In Job 1:21, Job says, "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away. May the name of the Lord be praised."

The Bible also speaks to the issue of hope in the midst of depression. As we see in Psalm 42:5-6, hope is a key issue in depression. The critical transition is from hopeless to hopeful. This transition is possible because God makes promises to us, and He is pleased when we anticipate those promises. In Romans 8:28, Paul writes, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." This verse reminds us that even in the midst of depression, God is working for our good and that He is sovereign over all things.

Finally, the Bible encourages us to look up from our depression and see the bigger picture. Scripture gives us vistas that extend from the beginning of creation to eternity. In Psalm 119:50, David writes, "My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves me for all generations." This verse reminds us that God's promises are eternal and that they can bring us comfort in the midst of suffering. By looking up from our depression and seeing the bigger picture, we can find hope and comfort in God's promises. Ultimately, the Bible teaches us that even in the midst of depression, God is with us and that He is working for our good.