I don’t want you to think I am some super-Christian through the words I write. I am just as prone to the difficulties and hardships of life as anyone. I love Jesus with all my heart – but I struggle often with depression. It has been my constant companion since I was young. I see you nodding your head. You understand. Depression is a bully. One that is hard to escape. That’s why you and I need encouragement and hope. The truth is, I always write to encourage myself as much as to encourage you. Someone reading this is in the dark place of depression. I don’t know your name, but I am writing to you today.
You are doing your best to be a good, faithful Christian. But you’re questioning your faith because of the darkness. And the enemy is using that to his advantage. I hear the accusations too: “If you were really a Christian you wouldn’t be depressed. God is so disappointed in you.” You hear the reminders that Christians are supposed to be full of joy, joy, joy! But you’re not. I am writing this so that you, my weary and hurting friend, will know that there is no shame in depression – even for Christians. The Bible shows that we are in very good company in this cave – Moses, Elijah, David, Jeremiah, and Paul all expressed similar emotions and seasons. Many of the great men and women throughout Christian history struggled with depression.
I am also writing this to let you know that God loves you – even in the pit or desert or cave of depression. He is not angry or disappointed with you. He has not written you off. He has drawn near to you like a caring parent does when their child is hurting. He speaks gentle whispers of love and encouragement, and He tenderly wipes away the tears on your face. Let Him love you – it is His greatest delight. Let Him minister grace to you.
Beloved, there is hope for you and for me in the face of depression. God is too good to leave His dear child in pain. David said, “You, LORD, are my lamp; the LORD turns my darkness into light.” 2 Samuel 22:29. And He will. We have His Word on it.