If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, you are not alone.
The Bible acknowledges the reality of depression and offers hope and comfort to those who are suffering.
In this article, we will explore twelve powerful Bible verses about depression and discuss what the Bible teaches about seeking help and finding hope in the midst of mental illness.
We will also look at five Bible chapters that are relevant to depression and discuss related concepts and ideas that are taught in the Bible.
Bible verses about depression
Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about depression:
1. Psalm 34:18 – “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”
2. Psalm 42:5 – “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.”
3. Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
4. Matthew 11:28 – “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
5. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 – “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”
6. Philippians 4:6-7 – “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
7. Psalm 40:1-3 – “I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord.”
8. Psalm 55:22 – “Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.”
9. Isaiah 40:31 – “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”
10. John 14:27 – “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
11. Romans 8:38-39 – “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
12. 1 Peter 5:7 – “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.”
What does the Bible say about depression?
The Bible acknowledges that depression is a real and painful experience that people can go through.
It talks about individuals who experienced depression, such as Job and Elijah, and how they cried out to God for help.
The Bible encourages people to seek comfort and support from God and others, to trust in God’s love and faithfulness, and to find hope in the promises of God.
It also emphasizes the importance of self-care, such as getting enough rest and seeking medical help when needed.
Ultimately, the Bible teaches that God is a source of comfort and strength for those who are struggling with depression.
What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about depression?
1. Psalm 42 – This chapter is a lament of the psalmist who is struggling with depression and feeling distant from God. It is relevant to depression because it acknowledges the pain and despair that can come with this mental illness, and offers hope in turning to God for comfort and strength.
2. Job 3 – This chapter is where Job curses the day he was born and expresses his deep despair and hopelessness. It is relevant to depression because it shows how even a righteous man like Job can experience intense emotional pain and struggle with feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness.
3. 1 Kings 19 – This chapter tells the story of Elijah, a prophet who becomes deeply depressed and asks God to take his life. It is relevant to depression because it shows how even those who are close to God can struggle with mental illness and how God can provide comfort and strength in the midst of it.
4. Lamentations 3 – This chapter is a lament of the prophet Jeremiah who is mourning the destruction of Jerusalem. It is relevant to depression because it acknowledges the pain and suffering that can come with loss and grief, and offers hope in turning to God for comfort and renewal.
5. Philippians 4 – This chapter contains the famous verse “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” It is relevant to depression because it offers hope and encouragement to those who are struggling, reminding them that they are not alone and that God can provide the strength they need to overcome their challenges.
Ideas and concepts related to depression that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.
1. Sorrow – Sorrow is a common theme in the Bible, and it is often associated with depression. The Bible talks about the sorrow that comes from loss, sin, and other difficult experiences. Sorrow can lead to depression, as it can be overwhelming and difficult to cope with.
2. Hopelessness – The Bible also talks about hopelessness, which is a common feeling among those who are depressed. The Bible offers hope, however, through the promises of God and the assurance of salvation.
3. Guilt – Guilt is another concept that is related to depression and is discussed in the Bible. The Bible talks about the guilt that comes from sin and the need for forgiveness. Guilt can be a major contributor to depression, as it can be difficult to let go of past mistakes.
4. Loneliness – Loneliness is another theme that is discussed in the Bible, and it is often associated with depression. The Bible offers comfort and companionship through the presence of God and the community of believers.
5. Despair – Despair is a feeling of hopelessness and is often associated with depression. The Bible offers hope and encouragement through the promises of God and the assurance of salvation.
Overall, the Bible offers comfort and hope to those who are struggling with depression. It acknowledges the difficult emotions and experiences that can lead to depression and offers a way forward through faith and trust in God.
