byDepressive disorder (also known as depression) has become a regular term for many young adults today. When things do not go their way, they feel depressed. When they are no longer happy, and everything seems dull, they feel depressed. Depression is a condition of the mind and soul. To the best of my knowledge, depression has not positively impacted anyone. It is understandable for an unbeliever to experience depression, but for a Christian, there is no excuse or room for it. I will explain why in this article. Kindly read on.
You have Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ is love, and He demonstrates His love to us daily. Those who have Him also reflect this love. If you have Jesus, you have everything. What can Jesus not do? Can He cure a disease? Yes, He can, and He has. By His stripes, you are healed. Are you lacking wisdom in your academics or workplace? The Bible says, “If anyone who lacks wisdom asks Him, He will give him without reproach” (James 1:5). Any good thing missing in the life of a Christian is provided in the name of Jesus.
Moreover, Jesus is the fulfilment of God’s promise to humanity—to deliver us from our old, corruptible selves to a renewed self through the Spirit of God. God promised us the Holy Spirit, who is available to all who accept Jesus as their Lord and personal Savior. The Holy Spirit is our Advocate and Comforter. For this reason, do not succumb to depression but draw your comfort from Him.
God is with you
I have had moments when life felt overwhelming, and it seemed like no one was there for me. I understand how that feels, but I also know it is a lie the devil tells to lead us into depression. God assures us in His Word:
“Let your manner of living be without covetousness, and be content with such things as ye have. For He hath said, ‘I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee'” — Hebrews 13:5
God cares about your mental health, which is why He promises to always be with you. He gave a similar assurance to the Israelites:
“The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you” — Deuteronomy 31:8
He demonstrated His presence to them through a pillar of fire by night and a cloud by day. Today, while you may not see physical manifestations like pillars of fire, God’s presence is more profound—He lives in you through His Spirit.
You have eternal life
Many people become depressed over earthly concerns. According to the World Health Organization, “People who have gone through adverse life events (unemployment, bereavement, traumatic events) are more likely to develop depression.” That aligns with the Scripture: “Where your treasure is, there your heart shall also be” (Matthew 6:21). Unbelievers treasure earthly life because they believe it is all they have. Without the hope of resurrection and eternal fellowship with their Creator, they see no escape from life’s trials. I once watched a short video about a pilot who became deeply depressed after losing his best friend. For six years, he struggled with his grief, and at one point, he nearly crashed a plane in an attempt to feel better. Losing a loved one is undoubtedly painful. Even Jesus wept when He saw Mary and Martha mourning their brother, Lazarus (John 11:35).
As a Christian, you are called to mourn with those who mourn and rejoice with those who rejoice (see Romans 12:15). However, you do not have to allow grief to lead you into despair. Instead, ensure that everyone, including your loved ones, has eternal life through salvation. That gives the hope that you will meet God again and worship Him joyfully forever. Earthly troubles are temporary. Though you may grieve or face challenges, these experiences are not your final destination—Heaven is. With this assurance, rise above depression, knowing that your hope lies in eternal fellowship with Christ.
In conclusion, depression is a real challenge in today’s world, but for a Christian, it is not an insurmountable one. With Jesus Christ as your ultimate source of love and provision, the Holy Spirit as your Comforter and Strengthener, and the assurance of eternal life, you have all you need to rise above the trials of life. While emotions like grief and sadness are natural and expected, they should never define or overwhelm you. Your faith gives you the tools to navigate life’s difficulties with hope, knowing that your ultimate treasure is not in this world but in our eternal fellowship with God.
