Being a Christian and dealing with depression is difficult and can be confusing. Is depression a sin according to the bible?
Definitely, the answer is no. Most of the time, it seems that people assume that being a Christian entails perpetual bliss and no worries. However, Christians experience the same issues as everyone else who holds a particular belief or practice.
Not only can depression cause you to doubt God or feel estranged from Him, but it can also make it more challenging to interact with Christians. Because there are stigmas and misconceptions about depression in many Christian communities, depression can be even more difficult.
It is more challenging to ask for help when you, or those close to you, do not comprehend the truth of depression. Already, depression can skew your vision of reality or cause you to question your judgment. Understanding what is and is not true regarding depression is essential.
What Does the Bible Say About Depression?
Depression is explicitly mentioned in Proverbs 12:25. In this brief couplet, God, through the insight of Solomon, offers a diagnosis and a treatment plan that can assist those who are depressed in overcoming it. The culprit is an anxious heart. Jesus invited individuals who are worn out and troubled to rest with him (Matthew 11:28-30).
In general, biblical principles offer hope to many Christians who are depressed. Additionally, the Bible has several accounts of people who suffered from depression:
- Moses – Numbers 11: 10-16
- David – Psalm 51; Psalm 32: 1-5
- Elijah – 1 Kings 19:1-18
- Jonah – Jonah 4:1-11
- Psalmist – Psalm 73
One of the defining characteristics of depression is hopelessness. God exhorts us to seek Him out in times of need (Psalm 50:15).
The culmination of all hope is God’s grace in Jesus Christ (Colossians 1:5-6, 23, 27; 1 Timothy 1:1).
Realizing repeatedly that our sins have been forgiven and that we shall spend all of eternity with the eternally joyful God, who longs for us to share in His joy, is what brings salvation joy.
Love for God and others is necessary because we all occasionally fall into a morbid self-involvement vortex that prevents us from adhering to the divine prescription provided by the Great Physician, the medicine that many people need above all else (Matthew 22:36-40).
Depression is an Illness Not a Sin
A perfect world was created by God, but after evil entered, the world was no longer perfect. When evil enters God’s flawless creation, we all suffer to some degree as a result. One of the many ways we may observe how damaged our environment is is through illness, whether it be physical or emotional.
Although stressors or unfavorable environmental variables can cause mental disease, this does not indicate that it does not exist. Stressors and harmful environmental elements can also lead to physical sickness. Stress can lead to heart attacks and ulcers, both of which are very serious conditions that, like depression, require treatment rather than judgment.
Prayer alone is frequently inadequate to combat depression. Anyone suffering from depression should seek medical attention, just like with any sickness. While God is able to miraculously heal both physical and mental affliction, He does not always do so. He offers alternative treatments. God endowed those in the medical and mental health fields with the knowledge and abilities necessary to assist the suffering.
For many persons with depression, therapy or counseling can be an essential component of treatment. People can recover from depression by being able to process trauma and develop coping mechanisms to lessen stressors and deal with obstacles.
It is unfortunate that some Christians can be quite judgmental toward mental illness, but that is not how the Bible would respond. You shouldn’t be made to feel embarrassed or afraid to discuss your mental illness with your church family.
Jesus made it abundantly plain that He disapproved of persons who seemed to be extremely moral and devout while passing judgment on others.
People can open up about all of their problems and ask for prayer in a true Christian community without worrying about being judged or feeling guilty. They can bear witness to how God is guiding whatever is taking place in their lives.
Christians should treat depression and mental illness with the same compassion and gentleness that Jesus does.
Bottom Line
God feels your pain very intimately. God understands, even if you are so depressed that you are unable to express your prayers clearly. God is with you and hears the screams of your heart (Psalm 34:18).
Despite what some people may tell you, seeking treatment for a mental condition or using prescription medicine is neither a sign of weakness in your faith nor a show of shame.
Find folks you feel secure around and who can give you encouragement without casting judgment. It’s critical to have individuals in your life who will encourage you and serve as constant reminders of God’s love and faithfulness throughout this tough time. With the love and encouragement of God and the people around you, you are capable of surviving this crisis.
