Topical Encyclopedia In the context of the Bible, the concept of depression, while not explicitly named as such in the ancient texts, is addressed through various descriptions of emotional and spiritual distress. The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals experiencing deep sorrow, despair, and a sense of being overwhelmed, which align with what modern terminology might describe as depression.Biblical Examples of Depression: 1. David: King David, a man after God's own heart, often expressed feelings of deep distress and sorrow. In the Psalms, he frequently cried out to God in times of trouble. For instance, in Psalm 42:5 , David writes, "Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why the unease within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him for the salvation of His presence." This verse reflects a struggle with inner turmoil and a call to trust in God despite feelings of depression. 2. Elijah: The prophet Elijah experienced a period of intense despair after his victory over the prophets of Baal. In 1 Kings 19:4 , Elijah, overwhelmed and fearing for his life, "went a day's journey into the wilderness. He sat down under a broom tree and prayed that he might die. 'I have had enough, LORD,' he said. 'Take my life, for I am no better than my fathers.'" Elijah's plea reveals a moment of profound hopelessness and exhaustion. 3. Job: The account of Job is a profound exploration of suffering and despair. After losing his children, wealth, and health, Job laments his birth and wishes for death. In Job 3:11 , he cries, "Why did I not perish at birth; why did I not die as I came from the womb?" Job's lamentations throughout the book illustrate the depths of human suffering and the struggle to find meaning amidst pain. 4. Jeremiah: Known as the "weeping prophet," Jeremiah experienced significant emotional anguish over the fate of Jerusalem and his own personal struggles. In Jeremiah 20:14 , he curses the day of his birth, saying, "Cursed be the day I was born! May the day my mother bore me never be blessed!" His expressions of sorrow and lamentation are indicative of a deep, pervasive sadness. Biblical Responses to Depression: 1. Prayer and Lament: The Bible encourages turning to God in times of distress. The Psalms, in particular, are filled with prayers and laments that express sorrow while also seeking God's presence and deliverance. Psalm 34:17-18 assures, "The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears; He delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit." 2. Community and Support: Scripture emphasizes the importance of community and bearing one another's burdens. Galatians 6:2 instructs, "Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." The support of fellow believers can be a source of comfort and strength during times of depression. 3. Hope and Trust in God: The Bible consistently points to hope and trust in God as a remedy for despair. Romans 15:13 offers a prayer for hope, "Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." 4. Renewal of Mind: The renewal of the mind is a biblical principle that can aid in overcoming depressive thoughts. Romans 12:2 encourages believers, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." While the Bible does not use the term "depression," it provides a rich tapestry of narratives and teachings that address the human experience of deep emotional and spiritual distress. Through prayer, community, hope, and the renewal of the mind, Scripture offers guidance and solace for those facing such challenges. Topical Bible Verses Philippians 4:13I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. Topicalbible.org John 8:12 James 5:13 2 Timothy 1:7 Romans 8:28 Greek 5013. tapeinoo -- to make low, fig. to humble ... to humble. From tapeinos; to depress; figuratively, to humiliate (in condition or heart) -- abase, bring low, humble (self). see GREEK tapeinos. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/5013.htm - 7k Strong's Hebrew 6031. anah -- to be bowed down or afflicted... With anah through the idea of looking down or browbeating); to depress literally or figuratively, transitive or intransitive (in various applications, as ... /hebrew/6031.htm - 6k 8213. shaphel -- to be or become low, to be abased 7817. shachach -- to bow, be bowed down, crouch 7812. shachah -- to bow down 8430. Toach -- an ancestor of Samuel 5602. sephel -- a bowl 8459. Tochu -- an ancestor of Samuel Library Death's Dark and Moonless Night, Be Thou Contented. The Second Condition Requisite in Affective Prayer, to Wit... Meditation on God The Gethsemane Prayer In the Dungeon of Giant Discourager Glorious Predestination 24TH DAY. Eventide Light. Matthew xxii. 14 At the Manger. Resources Is it wrong for a Christian to be depressed? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about depression? How can a Christian overcome depression? | GotQuestions.org What is reality therapy, and is it biblical? | GotQuestions.org Depressed: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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