Page 60 - Biblical Counseling I Textbook

There are some things that those who suffer from depression can do to alleviate their anxiety. They should make
sure that they are staying in the Word, even when they do not feel like it. Emotions can lead us astray, but God’s
Word stands firm and unchanging. We must maintain strong faith in God and hold even more tightly to Him
when we undergo trials and temptations. The Bible tells us that God will never allow temptations into our lives
that are too much for us to handle (1 Corinthians 10:13). Although being depressed is not a sin, one is still
accountable for the response to the affliction, including getting the professional help that is needed. “Through
Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess his name”
(Hebrews 13:15).

What is depression?
Depression is a profound sadness or melancholy leading to a hopelessness that has significant and varied
effects upon a person’s mind, emotions, and physical and spiritual well-being. Depression has many
causes, but all have spiritual roots.

1. Depression is a profound sadness or melancholy (Prov. 18:14; Ps. 77:1-9).
2. Depression leads to hopelessness (1 Kings 19:4-7; Ps. 88).
3. Depression has varied effects upon a person:
• It affects the mind (Dan. 7:28; 1 Kings 19:10).
• It affects the emotions (Neh. 2:2; Prov. 18:14).

• It affects physical well-being (1 Kings 19:5-6; Ps. 32:3-4).
• It affects spiritual well-being (Ps. 88; Prov. 18:14).
4. Depression has many causes, but all have spiritual roots.
• Sin and guilt can cause depression (Ps. 32:3-4).
• Overwhelming circumstances can cause depression (1 Sam. 1:1-17; Ps. 42:1-8).
• Real or perceived injustice can lead to depression (Ps. 73:1-14)
• Wrongly focused relationships can cause depression (Jer. 17:5-6).
• Physical issues can cause depression—e.g., exhaustion, illness, disability, substance abuse, etc.

Who can experience depression?
1. All people are vulnerable to depression.
2. Even mature believers can experience depression. 1 Kings 19, Psalm 88

How can we help?
1. Remember that you are vulnerable (1 Cor. 10:12-13).
2. Remember that Christ sympathizes with us and we should do the same (Heb. 4:15-16).
3. Learn from how the Lord dealt with Elijah (1 Kings 19).
• We must demonstrate compassion and empathy.
• We can help facilitate rest and refreshment (v 5-8).
• We gently ask probing questions (v 9 and 13).
• We speak quietly and with gentleness (v 11-13; cf. Prov. 25:20).
• We speak truth (v 15-18).

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