Biblical Answer

Can I still be a good Christian if I struggle with anxiety and depression?

As a Christian, it is essential to understand that struggles with anxiety and depression do not disqualify you from being a good Christian. In fact, the Bible acknowledges that Christians can face mental health challenges, including depression. Psalm 42:5 says, "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." This verse shows that even in the midst of struggles, we can still put our hope in God and praise Him.

The Bible teaches that faith and emotions are not the same thing. As the Scripture says, "The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent" (John 6:29). This means that our faith is not dependent on our emotions, but rather on our trust in God and His promises. Even when we struggle with anxiety and depression, we can still choose to trust in God and His goodness. As the verse from Psalm 42:5 says, "Put your hope in God." This means that we can still be good Christians even when we struggle with mental health challenges.

It's also important to note that the Bible offers hope and help for those struggling with anxiety and depression. For example, in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, Paul writes about his own struggles with a "thorn in the flesh" that he prayed to be removed, but God instead chose to give him the strength to endure it. This passage shows that God is willing to help us through our struggles, even if they don't go away. By putting our hope in God and seeking help from Him, we can still be good Christians even when we struggle with anxiety and depression. As the Scripture says, "You will be strengthened, and you will be changed" (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).