Understanding Depression

Introduction

Feeling depressed is not a new phenomenon, since symptoms that are now defined as “depression” sometimes characterized people of the Bible. God’s Word not only helps you face this problem but also shows you how to be an overwhelming conqueror even in the midst of feeling depressed (based on Psalm 19:7-14, 119:165; Proverbs 16:25; 1 Corinthians 1:25, 3:18-20, 10:13; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:2-10; 1 John 5:4-5).

What is “depression?”

Many defined “depression” as a condition marked by feelings of dejection and/or guilt. The result of hopelessness and cessation of activity. Often classified as a “disease” by some in the medical profession, depression is often thought to be the most prominent disorder presently observed in general medical practice. However, in spite of the prevalence of “depression,” medical science admits that the causes of depression are largely unknown.

In Scripture, feelings associated with being depressed are described as having a fallen countenance (Genesis 4:7), having a broken spirit (Proverbs 17:22, 18:14), being sad (Proverbs 15:13), experiencing despair (Psalm 42:11), being broken hearted (Psalm 147:3), being burdened by the weight of sin (Psalm 38:4), mourning (Psalm 38:6), having grief (Psalm 119:28), or losing heart (becoming faint or weary) (Ephesians 3:13; Hebrews 12:3).

David described many of the symptoms and feelings of “being depressed” in Psalm 38 by saying...

Psalm 38:3–17 KJV 1900

3 There is no soundness in my flesh because of thine anger; Neither is there any rest in my bones because of my sin. 4 For mine iniquities are gone over mine head: As an heavy burden they are too heavy for me. 5 My wounds stink and are corrupt Because of my foolishness. 6 I am troubled; I am bowed down greatly; I go mourning all the day long. 7 For my loins are filled with a loathsome disease: And there is no soundness in my flesh. 8 I am feeble and sore broken: I have roared by reason of the disquietness of my heart. 9 Lord, all my desire is before thee; And my groaning is not hid from thee. 10 My heart panteth, my strength faileth me: As for the light of mine eyes, it also is gone from me. 11 My lovers and my friends stand aloof from my sore; And my kinsmen stand afar off. 12 They also that seek after my life lay snares for me: And they that seek my hurt speak mischievous things, And imagine deceits all the day long. 13 But I, as a deaf man, heard not; And I was as a dumb man that openeth not his mouth. 14 Thus I was as a man that heareth not, And in whose mouth are no reproofs. 15 For in thee, O Lord, do I hope: Thou wilt hear, O Lord my God. 16 For I said, Hear me, lest otherwise they should rejoice over me: When my foot slippeth, they magnify themselves against me. 17 For I am ready to halt, And my sorrow is continually before me.

Who can experience feelings of depression?

No one is completely immune to the feelings of depression (based on 1 Corinthians 10:12-13). People in Scripture also experienced what would today be classified as “depression.” As you will see in the following examples, the precipitating factor was a self-focus that led to sin, which then led to “depression.”

Elijah reacted to Jezebel’s threats by fearing for his own life, giving in to despair and fleeing, even after a great victory (1 Kings 19:1-4);

David committed sin, failed to repent, and then lost hope (Psalm 38);

Jonah, displeased at the workings of God’s sovereignty, became angry with God, which resulted in his wanting to die (Jonah 4:1-11);

Peter denied the Lord by lying and cursing, which led him to weep bitterly (Matthew 26:69-75); and

Judas betrayed Jesus and then felt remorse. After throwing the thirty pieces of silver into the sanctuary, he committed suicide by hanging himself (Matthew 27:1-5).

Since you may experience “depression” as a result of sinning, examples from Scripture are recorded for your instruction so you will persevere (be obedient to God’s Word) and receive hope (based on Romans 15:4).

What are possible factors that may lead to “depression?”

Any number of factors can contribute to your “being depressed.” There are numerous physical factors that do not involve sin. However, you must guard against having unbiblical responses in the midst of physical problems. While the following list is not exhaustive, it indicates the importance of conducting a careful and Biblical self-examination to determine what changes the Lord wants you to make in your life (Proverbs 11:14, 18:13; Isaiah 55:8-11; Matthew 7:1-5; 1 Corinthians 11:31; Philippians 4:6-7; James 1:5, 22-25).

Physical Factors

Sickness, childbirth, surgery and the recovery process, hormonal or chemical imbalances, organic dysfunctions, sleep loss, unhealthy diet, fatigue, menstrual cycle phenomena, or physical maladies (i.e., hypoglycemia, diabetes, glandular dysfunction)

NOTE: It is important that a medical diagnosis be made by a primary care physician and medical supervision be maintained with some of these conditions. At the same time, however, you must make Biblical changes in your life so that you can learn to live Biblically in the midst of physical need and medical treatment. Remember, God is sovereign and will never allow a physical problem to come into your life that would make it impossible for you to be obedient to His Word.

Unbiblical Responses to Life Situations

Physical “handicaps” (i.e., paralysis, loss of limb, blindness, deafness), job loss, divorce, death of a loved one, loss of a relationship, financial difficulties, accidents, interpersonal conflicts, children leaving home at maturity, retirement, persecution, perceived crises, traumas, or medical treatment for yourself or your loved ones.

Lack of Biblical Obedience

Eating disorders, overwork, insufficient rest, improper sleep habits, substance abuse (drugs, alcohol, prescribed medications), lack of exercise, failing to complete responsibilities (such as housework, yard care, assignments at work, care of children), lack of devotions, unfaithful prayer life, refusing to forgive others or be restored in personal relationships, lack of fellowship with fellow believers, failure to minister as part of Christ’s body, or failure to confess sins to the Lord and to others in a faithful manner.

Unbiblical Thoughts & Thought Patterns

Bitterness, worry, anxiety, envy, jealousy, self-pity, a spirit of unforgiveness, impatience, procrastination, lustful thoughts, holding grudges, prideful thinking, anger, or esteeming yourself above others.

Any of the above contributing factors that are not dealt with in a Biblical manner may tempt you to continue in a “downward spiral,” which can result in feelings of depression.

What is the Biblical perspective on factors contributing to “depression?”

Physical Factors

God as fearfully and wonderfully made your body (Psalm 139:14). As a believer, you have been redeemed with a price and are to exalt Christ and glorify God in your body (1 Corinthians 6:20; Philippians 1:20). Proper care of your body is essential in accomplishing this goal. You are to present your body as a living and holy sacrifice to God, which is your spiritual service of worship (Romans 12:1).

Since some physical conditions (for example, hormonal imbalance or organic and glandular dysfunctions) may contribute to your feeling depressed, it is important that a medical diagnosis be made and proper care be maintained whenever this type of condition is present or suspected. However, you are still responsible to respond Biblically in any difficulty regardless of your feelings (such as Jeremiah did in Lamentations 3:31-32, 38-40; or as the Apostle Paul did in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10).

In the midst of physical difficulties, as you seek to be responsible (which includes seeking appropriate medical help) and are practicing Biblical love in all your relationships, you will please God and will receive His strength and loving care (based on Genesis 4:7; Psalm 34:19; 37:23-24; 119:143; 147:3, 6; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10; Philippians 2:3-8; 4:13, 19; James 1:25).

All Other Factors

All things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). God has started and will complete His work in you (Philippians 1:6), so trust Him (Proverbs 3:5-6), because He intends for you to be conformed to the image of His Son (Romans 8:29). He uses the trials of life to accomplish that purpose (Romans 5:3-5; James 1:2-4) and to prove the reality of your faith (1 Peter 1:6-7).

No matter what may occur in your life, your loving obedience to God’s Word (John 14:15) give you an opportunity to die to self in order that you may live for Christ (Luke 9:23-24; Galatians 2:20). God has promised to take care of all your needs as you seek first His kingdom and righteousness (Matthew 6:33), by keeping your eyes firmly fixed on Jesus Christ (Hebrews 12:1-2) and following His steps (Matthew 11:29; John 13:12-17; 1 Peter 2:21-25).

NOTE: God’s Word never commands you to change your feelings, but you are commanded to change your deeds (thoughts, words, and actions) by being obedient to Scripture. God’s commands are not burdensome (1 John 3:5). Your obedience to Gods’ Word is based on your love for the Lord Jesus Christ instead of the unpredictability of your feelings (based on John 14:21, 23; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15; Galatians 5:16-17; 1 John 5:3).

Biblical self-evaluation is necessary in every area of your life (Matthew 7:1-5; 1 Corinthians 11:31), which includes your actions (Matthew 7:24-27; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8), your relationships with others (Ephesians 5:21; Philippians 2:3-4), your words (Matthew 12:36-37; Ephesians 4:29; Colossians 4:6), and your thought life (2 Corinthians 10:5; Colossians 3:2). As you obey God’s Word in all areas of your life, you will receive the Lord’s blessing (James 1:25). If you are not obedient to God’s Word, you will receive the Lord’s corrective discipline (1 Corinthians 11:32; Hebrews 12:5-11). Particular attention needs to be given to:

Regular confession of sins to the Lord (1 John 1:9) and, at the appropriate time, to those against whom you have sinned (James 5:16);

Faithfulness in prayer (Colossians 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:17);

Diligence in the study of (2 Timothy 2:15), meditation on (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:2), and memorization of God’s Word (Psalm 119:11, 16);

Fellowship with other brothers and sisters in Christ (Hebrews 10:23-25); and

Consistent ministry as a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ (1 Peter 4:10).