What Does the Bible Say About Depression?
What Does the Bible Say About Depression? The Bible shows that even great people of faith experienced depression, and offers God's presence, hope, and practical help as remedies.
Key verse: Psalm 30:5 (KJV)
The Bible shows that even great people of faith experienced depression, and offers God's presence, hope, and practical help as remedies.
The Bible shows that even great people of faith experienced depression, and offers God's presence, hope, and practical help as remedies.
"For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." — Psalm 30:5 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
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The Biblical Answer
Depression is not a sign of weak faith—some of the Bible's greatest figures struggled with it. Elijah, fresh from his greatest victory on Mount Carmel, sat under a tree and asked to die (1 Kings 19:4). David wrote: 'I am weary with my groaning; all the night make I my bed to swim; I water my couch with my tears' (Psalm 6:6). Jeremiah cursed the day he was born (Jeremiah 20:14-18). God's response to Elijah was remarkably practical: sleep, food, gentle companionship, and a new purpose. The Psalms model honest prayer in dark times—bringing raw emotions to God rather than hiding them. Scripture offers hope that 'weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning' (Psalm 30:5). God does not condemn the depressed; He draws near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18).
Topic Overview
What Does the Bible Say About Depression?
Biblical encouragement for those battling depression, sadness, and emotional darkness.
Key Scripture References
"For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning."
"He requested for himself that he might die... And as he lay and slept under a juniper tree, behold, then an angel touched him, and said unto him, Arise and eat."
"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."
Frequently asked questions
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Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
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