Depression is real, and if you are fighting it you are not alone. Depression seems to have been the bane of many of life’s great leaders. In the Bible, Moses, Elijah, David, and Job all had to deal with it. In the secular world, Sir Winston Churchill used to call depression his ‘black dog’, and Ernest Hemingway referred to it as ‘the artist’s reward’.
President Abraham Lincoln battled depression and suicide all his adult life. There were times when for his own safety Lincoln would not allow himself to carry a knife, for fear that he would hurt himself, or worse. Read about Lincoln turning to the Bible to relieve his depression. Let the Scriptures help you just like they have helped so many of us. Sometimes depression can be a purely spiritual thing, read this – Depression Is a Spirit – It Must Be Fought with the Word of God.
Depression is the physical and emotional result of hopelessness – the ‘feeling‘ of hopelessness. We live in a world devoid of hope, and depression is the emotional product of that reality. The only thing that will actually change one’s life sufficiently as to destroy the cause, mechanics, and effects of depression is God’s hope and His word of hope. The answer is to get God’s hope back inside of you.
Hope will let you again see the ‘future positive possibility’ of your life. Without seeing it you will have no motivation or strength. The good Word of God, and the good word of others to you, can change the outlook and condition of your heart. Fight for God’s outlook with all you have. Fight it with the Word of God. (Also, confess the scriptures on Hopelessness.) Anyone who is among the living has hope.
God’s hope encourages, motivates, and keeps you on the road to faith, peace, and victory. And if you suffer from deep ongoing depression, get help. And please read this – Helping Others Is God’s Prescription for Depression. Send me a comment, we love you and we want to help you. You are important and you have value. You are not alone. With God’s help, you will climb out of this hole.
Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down (depression), but a good word cheers it up. Proverbs 12:25 Holman Christian Standard Bible
These scriptures on depression will give you hope and will build your faith. Confess and meditate on them to win the fight against depression. The key is not losing Hope. Allow the hope of God to seep back into you. Remember, there is a real Person (God) behind each and every one of these promises. He promised them to you for a reason – to help you.
Deuteronomy 31:8 – The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
Deuteronomy 33:27 – The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.
2 Samuel 22:17-22 – He sent from above, he took me; he drew me out of many waters; (18) He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them that hated me: for they were too strong for me. (19) They prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the Lord was my stay. (20) He brought me forth also into a large place: he delivered me, because he delighted in me. (21) The Lord rewarded me according to my righteousness: according to the cleanness of my hands hath he recompensed me. (22) For I have kept the ways of the Lord, and have not wickedly departed from my God.
2 Samuel 22:29 – You are my lamp O Lord; the Lord turns my darkness into light.
Ecclesiastes 9:4 – Anyone who is among the living has hope.
Psalms 9:9 – The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.
Psalm 27:14 – Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
Psalm 31:22,24 – You heard my cry for mercy when I called to you for help… Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.
Psalm 34:18, 19 – The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. (19) A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.
Psalm 37:23-24 – If the Lord delights in a man’s way, he makes his steps firm; though he stumbles, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.
Psalm 43:5 – Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God.
Psalm 55:22 – Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall.
Psalm 62:5 – Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him.
Psalm 126:5 – Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy.
Psalm 143:7-8 – Answer me quickly, O Lord; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I’ll lift up my soul.
Psalm 147:3 – He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Psalm 145:14 – The LORD upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.
Proverbs 12:25 – Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down (depression), but a good word cheers it up.
Isaiah 26:3-4, Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusts in Thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength. (Perfect means complete. If I keep my part of the promise by staying steadfastly focused on the Lord Jesus Christ, He will keep His promise to give me His perfect peace. See also Philippians 4:6-7 below)
Isaiah 35:10 – And the ransomed of the Lord will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away
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.
Isaiah 53:4 – Surely he took up our sicknesses and carried our sorrows.
Mark 9:23 – Everything is possible for him who believes.
Romans 4:18-22 – Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, so shall they seed be. (19) And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about a hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sarah’s womb: (20) He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God. (21) And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able to perform. (22) And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness.
Romans 15:13 – May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
II Corinthians 7:6-7 – Nevertheless, God, that comforts, those that are depressed, comforted us by the coming of Titus; (7) And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.
Philippians 4:6-7 – Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
James 4:8 – Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
James 4:10 – Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
2 Peter 2:9 – The Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials.
1 Peter 4:12 – Dear Friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you.
1 Peter 4:13 – But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed
1 Peter 5:7 – Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
Read how Lincoln Turned to the Bible to Manage His Depression and other articles: Scriptures Against Hopelessness – Scriptures Against Worry – New Testament Scriptures on Faith & Believing – Do God’s Promises Cover What You Want?
Comments
To Patrick and Gayle – you have found the right place, we all share your feelings and have found comfort, inspiration and hope through this site and the word of God. Remember that He will never forsake you.
https://www.hopefaithprayer.com/you-have-hope-derek-prince/
I am trying to defeat depression as well and this article really helped me to understand it as a spirit and how to fight that spirit with faith that God loves you and gave his word not to leave you. Hope that you will be in glory with God and how to assemble the armor to defeat depression.
Hello, My name is Gayle and I have been struggling with depression for many years. I keep it a secret. Everyone thought I was happy, I was working part-time and going to school. There was a deep dark place inside of me. I just recently told other that I have been dealing with this disease for a long time. It felt good to talk about but some people just don’t care to hear it. I guess they have their own problems. Since then I have been reading scriptures on healing and now I have some on depression. I know it is a spirit but God is going to win the end. I will keep you update on my progress.
Kayela, you said exactly what I’m feeling. People would be surprised to know what I actually feel inside, because I to am a stong person, I make people laugh, I work hard, and I will do anything for anybody. But when i come home and when I am alone, I feel this emptiness and the feeling of hopelessness. I sometmes feel like I am stuck in a bubble, a repetitive life with nothing to look forward too. I know exactly how you feel. It is not like me to feel like this, it’s been a tough year. I would like to talk or stay in contact. maybe we can be that ear to each other that we need. I will think and pray for you guys.
Rex, I actually changed emails recently due to an incident.
I forgot to change it in the email thing. I’ll do that right now
Oh cool.
I bet you’re doing amazing things.
Don’t worry about it, I can imagine you are busy.
I was just wondering if I could ask a question/ talk about something w/ you
Yes, anytime. I will send an email. Rex
Is Rex here?
Yes I am. I have been working on other things and have not responded well. Sorry. I am having to do a bunch of back house things on the site. I am chief cook and bottle washer here. I am redesigning the site among other things. Any suggestions? Rex
i am trying to move on but can’t help myself.
What’s up Folorunsho ola?
What’s going on?
Kay,
Well, I’m still here and breathing so I’m doing alright.
Good, don’t quit trying. We all know you are incredibly strong and can make it through all of this.
Hello Kayela,
I’ve been depressed basically all my life.
It’s not easy; but look at it like this, you’ve obviously been conquering depression for years, and you are still going.
So you are very strong. Even if you don’t see it in yourself.
I understand how you feel sweetie.
And a lot of people feel empty, but the thing is, we have to look up and fill those empty places with His love. And in order to do that we need to let go.
Of the sadness, and material things ect. And just turn to Him entirely.
It’s not easy. It’s one of the hardest things to do and takes a HUGE amount of faith, but God provides us with the strength we need
ColdandWarm, good to hear from you, hope you are well. Good days and not so good ones but I’m trying! Blessings
I’m a 24 year old female, Iv been suffering from depression honestly for as long as I can remember. But I didn’t really realize that’s what it was until I started to fit the pieces together from my behavior. What I don’t understand is how? I have a way of always making everyone laugh, of being a shoulder for someone to cry on, or an ear of reason. Iv always been “mature” for my age, being very wise beyond my years. I make good decisions, I work hard, and I wouldn’t hurt a fly. But I’m also a fighter, always have stood my ground, not only for myself but for other people. When people look at me they see confidence, and strength, and no one truly knows how empty I really am. I always push it aside and continue on, but when it comes out I feel it deep in my soul, a hole so big that will forever be there. I just can’t see living the rest of my life like this. I beg and I plead for God to just tell me what to do, where to go, I’ll do anything to stop this pain. I don’t really know what I’m trying to get from writing this, just feels good to talk about it without being judge, or just talk about it at all. I’ll be praying for all of you.
Kayela, you are not alone! Probably all of us here have felt the same way. It’s a real struggle everyday, isn’t it? But we have learned how to overcome – if not permanently, at least how to keep working on it and actually feeling real joy at times. Sometimes I think everyone feels empty inside but some are better actors (or self-deceivers) than others, but who knows for sure? Rex’s comments and scriptures are wonderfully helpful, as are the comments from members. The main thing to remember is that God has always loved you, will continue to always love you, and is always there for you. Any weakness in us is an opening for Satan, depression is one of his strongest weapons, so we really must turn to God. I hope you have a good church and pastor, but if you don’t feel you are “good” at praying, here’s advice from a trusted source: the way to learn to pray is to pray. Keep at it. You will feel God touch you. And let us help you.
Kay,
How are you doing now sweetie?
Complete healing does not come fast…
Think of a tree.
Now rip that entire tree out of the ground. Plant a seed in that hole. Does it fill is immediately? No, healing takes time. But it does come and through time we learn to grasp on to that hope that comes from our Father.
That seed will have some troubles while growing, but it will grow, and eventually it will turn into what it was when it begun…
I’d thought it was about over, I was feeling better and ready to begin non-drug management of the pain, but I’ve regressed, the symptoms have returned, it’s almost 6AM and I haven’t slept, my head pounds, my stomach and my legs won’t stay still, but I’m finally okay with it because I now realize this is apparently the way it is supposed to be. When I was hospitalized I really felt okay about dying, and now I feel that way again because this is not a good way to live. I’ve tried my best. Once I accepted Jesus I tried my best to stay on the journey to make disciples for Him and to bring glory to God’s name and now I have to accept the way things are. It makes no sense to keep struggling or trying, even a hamster on a wheel eventually stops, and I’m just so very tired. This is not depression, only recognition and acceptance. Blessings to all.
Maricela, it is so easy for us to give in to seeds of doubt, and once we do it just grows and grows and we see further “proof” of wrongdoing everywhere, meanwhile we are just hurting ourself. Try to remember that you are worthy of being treated lovingly and truthfully and, until something makes you know for absolutely sure that there is a real, not suspected problem, trust in God and yourself and enjoy your life. If, and that’s if, something concrete happens in the future, you will deal with it then, but don’t waste your present on the possibility of future problems. Blessings.
I am battling depression for some weeks now. But now it’s affecting my relationship, I’m seeing things that are not happening (infedelity). I am constantly over thinking that he is cheating and picking fights with him, that only push me further away from him. He assures me 300% he is faithful and that other people are planting doubts of his fidelity..please help because I feel this depression is just adding more doubts and hopelessness to my relationship. I don’t feel like myself and want to find joy and happiness in my life.
You will remain in my prayers . You will come out of this in jesus name..
Rex, how are you? ??
Hi my name is Lucy I have been fighting depression for 1 1/2 now.. I als I have anxiety. I always want to be asleep so I won’t have horrible thoughts..please pray for me . I am praying and trying to get it out of this terrible hole….
Hi Lucy,
Don’t lose hope. The Lord brought me out of my darkest times, He can and will do it for you too. Prayer is the most powerful weapon you can ever imagine. In my most horrible time of darkness and fear, I started sleeping with the Bible next to my head. And when my thoughts were too chaotic and afraid to formulate my own prayer, I read the ones written by others, even by children. It worked! Even within 2-3 days I found improvement. May God give you peace, hope and a renewed,refreshed mind very soon. God bless! V.
I’ve found it helpful to read the Upper Room, small book available in many churches that has daily scripture and short personal stories. It is amazing how often that day matches my day. I’ve also been trying to keep in mind lately, when I start slipping into depressing regret and self-blame, to not be sad that something was over but glad that it happened. Try to remember something good and praise that it happened, not that it is not still happening, and remember always that life is a gift that God gave you and He wants you to enjoy it. Blessings.
Travon,
Your comment is so true….
Just taking the time for someone you have never met can save a life.
Well, I haven’t found a technique that works for me but I have tried grounding techniques and that works for some people.
Also, taking a couple hours (even if you are busy make time) to just go outside and poor your heart out to God.
That helps me more then anything else.
GBU
Travon, you aren’t the first or last person that has felt like throwing in the towel. Suffering can be that intense sometimes. A song that helped me in my most darkest of times was I speak life by Donald Lawrence. I didn’t think I’d live at that time and hearing it gave me a renewed sense of hope. Things didn’t come easier and My depression did return but like kay said, I experienced light after that . Still waiting for the light again.
For you, if you can just recollect moments where you are less angry or in less despair write them down to remember that the intensity of things can pass. Listen to that song when your urges become strong.
Believe that you are young and the possibility of seeing the light is just as equal to not seeing the light right now so ending it will never allow you to see the outcome. Believe.
When you are in it there is no believing I know but you’ve got to hang on even if by a thread
Lily
Please reply so we know you’re okay
Travon, your message has touched me. It is good to know that our sincerity comes through and you can tell we are not just mouthing words. Rex runs this site with such intelligence, compassion and the right mix of religious and secular advice that he connects with everyone. He is our guide and my reinforcement when darkness comes (as it always will). I don’t really know magic words to get you through, I just know that for me I fill my empty head (because Satan loves empty spaces, he just swoops right in and makes himself at home) with hymn lyrics, scripture, wise words from various sources, etc. and, frankly, in the wee hours when sleep relief just will not come, I think of male and female names for non-existent children. Let me know if you get past Q.
Seriously, just as darkness will absolutely come again, so will the light … imagine seeing a tiny bright spot flittering across the darkness. The harder you stare, the larger it will become. That dear Travon is the light of Jesus leading you to safety. Keep in touch with us. You are in prayers.
Maybe if i do this it will help some, but i am a 24 year old young man. No need to list my many struggles of life since the age of 4 because they have been dealt with, (at least I hope which is a good thing right, hoping) but just a few moments ago I was prepared to take my life. I guess i said all that was to say this, i see many people comment on here to people around the world whom they never met, and i just want to tell you guys don’t stop. U may be saving a life seriously. Seeing your responses to each other stopped me from finally taking that step, just when i thought it was getting on track and i didnt have the gall to do it. But seriously thank you all. Whole heartedly i mean that. Does anyone have any simple everyday techniques ( not take 10 deep breaths or count from 10, my anger and despair are deeper than that) that seems to work for them?
Travon, I’m thinking of you, how are you?
Dee, it’s probably alopecia and I don’t know why Drs can’t help, esp a dermatologist. I don’t know of cures (despite what TV ads may say) but they certainly should be able to treat the pain. My friend bought the best wig(s) she could afford and a bunch of eyebrow pencils and lashes. It is a terrible condition but you can deal with it, it is not that uncommon, I’ve just not heard about the pain. Keep doctoring until someone helps you and search the condition online for referrals. Blessings
Hi everyone, I’ve been reading everyones comments and I’m starting to feel a little better. I’m a 32 year old woman going through depression and anxiety right now and the reason for that is cause I’m losing my hair and I have horrible scalp pain and there isn’t one doctor that can help with this. I know there are people out there with much bigger problems then me, but I’d really appreciate all of the prayers that I could get! I will also do the same for all of you. Thank you
Dee
M.T.H you are not alone and you ARE special. Everyone is fighting his own battle but I must say to you that you matter and you are in this world for a reason!! Never think that you are not useful. Try and be useful for yourself. Fight Satan with his negative whispers in your head and tell him that you will beat him. Think of things you enjoy doing and DO them. You are not less than anyone in this world. Everyone is equal. Try to accept the world as an imperfect place and look at each day as a hurdle. I have struggled with depression myself and this is what I try to do because our enemy are our negative thoughts which mostly are invented by ourselves by satan. Have courage my friend and NEVER think that you are not useful. I wish you lots of peace. RM
I’m realizing more and more that one of the best ways to handle things is to find someone else in need, whether you can physically do something for someone, just lend an ear (even here or other sites), or pray for people, then think of other ways you can help starting tomorrow. It gets your mind off yourself for a little bit and shows there is a future. If you don’t want to go out you can still help others by daily calls to seniors and homebounds, etc. I’m still working on recovery but have made a list of places to contact when I am strong enough. Search your online for volunteer organizations/clearing houses or contact your local municipality, once I started thinking the possibilitues are endless and I am eager to start. Meanwhile please let us know how you are faring. Blessings.