The Bible does not use the term “depression,” but it gives many examples of individuals who experienced deep sorrow, despair, and emotional anguish. David cried out in Psalm 42:11, “Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall yet praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God.”
Elijah, after great spiritual victory, fled into the wilderness and asked God to take his life, saying in 1 Kings 19:4, “It is enough! Now, Lord, take my life, for I am no better than my fathers!” Job, who lost everything, said in Job 3:11, “Why did I not perish at birth? Why did I not die as I came from the womb?”
These examples show that even the most faithful servants of God experienced seasons of despair. Yet in each case, the answer was not in self or circumstance, but in turning to the Lord. Psalm 34:17-18 offers comfort, “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.”
Isaiah prophesied of the coming Messiah in Isaiah 61:1-3, describing Him as one who would “heal the brokenhearted” and “give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness.”
Depression is real, but the Bible continually calls us to draw near to God in those dark places. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us to be anxious for nothing, and to let the peace of God guard our hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
