The Bible never says it is a sin to be depressed. Several strong men in the Bible who followed God became depressed: the prophet Elijah (1 Kings 19); David, who wrote many of the psalms (Psalms 42, 43, and others); even the perfect Jesus (Matthew 26:38).ย
So to be depressed is not the same as being guilty of sin, although depression can be a signal of sin in our lives. If your depression has been caused, at least in part, by rebellion against God and His standards set forth in the Bible, then your first step must be to confess the sin to God and turn away from your disobedience. This can bring quick relief to your depression and replace it with relief and great joy! This is the good news of God freely forgiving us, based on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Depression is a normal part of life for most people. For some it is a relatively minor and temporary experience. Others face it more regularly, as part of the temperament with which they were born or as a result of their environment.
Only a few people struggle with severe and chronic depression, which can lead to sickness or irrational behavior, such as suicide. If you fear that you may be in this last category, please write to bibleadvocate@cog7.org.
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