Biblical Answer

The question of why therapy is necessary when it may seem like it only makes us feel worse is a complex one, especially when it comes to addressing depression. On the surface, it may seem like therapy is just a Band-Aid solution that doesn't treat the root causes of our pain. However, the truth is that depression is not just a physical symptom, but also a deeply spiritual one. It's not just about alleviating physical symptoms, but also about addressing the guilt, fear, self-loathing, and other distinctly spiritual symptoms that come with it. This is where therapy comes in - not as a replacement for faith, but as a complement to it.

Therapy can provide a safe space for individuals to process their emotions and work through their spiritual struggles in a way that may not be possible in a church setting. It's not about finding a quick fix or a magic solution, but about working through the underlying issues that contribute to our depression. This can be a difficult and painful process, but it's one that can ultimately lead to healing and growth. As the Bible says, "The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent" (John 6:29). This doesn't mean that we don't believe when we're struggling with depression, but rather that our faith may not feel as jubilant as it once did. Our job is to hold on to our faith, even in the midst of suffering, and to seek out the help and support we need to navigate it.

Ultimately, therapy is not a replacement for faith, but rather a complement to it. It's not about finding a way to avoid suffering, but about learning to navigate it in a way that is healthy and productive. As the Bible says, "We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope" (Romans 5:3-4). This doesn't mean that suffering is easy or enjoyable, but rather that it has the potential to produce good in our lives if we approach it in the right way. By combining therapy with our faith, we can learn to navigate our struggles in a way that is both healing and hopeful.