Many Christians suffer from depression. They often keep their feelings to themselves, fearing judgment from fellow Christians. This fear arises from myths and misconceptions about depression prevalent among some Christians.
The topic of whether a Christian can experience depression is controversial. People tend to form conclusions without understanding the nature of depression or consulting the Bible for guidance. This misunderstanding is common among believers.
To understand depression, it’s essential to turn to the Scripture. This will help guide both ourselves and others on how to deal with depression as Christians without losing our faith.
We should be open-minded and not be quick to judge others because “There is one Lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy. Who are you to judge another?” James 4:12 (NKJV). If a brother/sister in the Lord is depressed, pray for them and encourage them to seek help. Remind them that they can overcome depression because we can do all things through Christ that strengthens us.
5 Misconceptions We Christians Need to Debunk
Unless you have experienced depression, it can be challenging to grasp the extent of the misconception about how terrible it is. But, try to put yourself in the shoes of others, and let’s work together in making this world a better place for us while we run the Christian race.
Depression Is a Sin
Depression is believed by some Christians to be a sin. And there are many Christians who go through depression but choose not to admit it to themselves or to others, so they wouldn’t be judged or called a sinner.
Depression is not a sin, nor is being depressed a sin. Unresolved sin may cause guilt, which may lead to depression. But, that doesn’t mean that all depression is caused by sin.
Everyone sins but, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 (NKJV). So, believing that depression is a sin or being depressed is a sin only makes it difficult for depressed Christians to speak up and get help.
Depression Is a Punishment from God
The Bible tells us, “To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, though we have rebelled against Him.” Daniel 9:9 (NKJV). God no longer punishes us for our sins because Jesus has paid the price and has taken that punishment. Though we may suffer the consequences of our sins, they are not a punishment from God. But rather, a correction and discipline designed to guide us back to the right path.
Depression is not a punishment from God; it is a mental illness that leans more toward a medical issue than a spiritual one. While some depressed Christians may feel guilt over their sins contributing to their depression, it’s important to understand that God is merciful and just, willing to forgive us of our iniquities. There’s no need to dwell in self-blame. Instead, pray, ask God for forgiveness, and strive to become a better person. The best choice is to avoid returning to that sin.
A Christian Can’t Be Depressed
We often hear some Christians say “God forbid, I cannot be depressed in Jesus’ name”. There is nothing wrong with this statement. It is okay to pray against what you don’t want, but the mindset behind this prayer is what is wrong. When people make statements like this, it is not because they don’t want to get depressed rather it’s because they think a Christian can’t get depressed.
Saying a Christian can’t get depressed, is like saying a Christian can’t get sick. Depression is a mental illness and just like other physical illnesses, it affects Christians and non-Christians alike.
A Christian can be depressed, even the Bible talked about righteous people who had to go through depression. For instance, David, as seen in the book of Psalms, although the Bible doesn’t specifically use the word “depression”, but similar words like “troubled”, “downcast” etc.
It Is Wrong to Be Depressed
There is nothing wrong with being depressed. What may be wrong is being a depressed Christian yet not seeking God’s help to go through it.
Depression like many other mental illnesses could be caused by a variety of reasons which may be beyond our control. And so the depressed Christians shouldn’t be shamed and condemned for their illness.
If any of our Christian brothers or sisters is depressed, rather than outrightly ridicule or mock them, encourage them to seek help and get better with words of encouragement. Pray with, and for them, and remember the bible says, “Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” James 5:16 (NKJV)
Depression Is a Sign of Ungenuine Christian Faith
Christians experiencing depression are seen to lack the spiritual strength a true Christian should have, or that the cause of their depression is simply a lack of faith, or that the person is not spiritually mature.
Some Christians believe that a true Christian who walks with God should have no reason to be depressed. Instead, the person should be spiritually fit to deal with every problem that comes their way and face all circumstances with joy and faith.
We often forget that it is easy for us to have faith when things are going right for us, but when the going becomes difficult our faith may begin to waiver. When that happens we are advised to “Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!” Psalm 27:14 (NKJV). Christians, go through tough times no matter how deeply rooted they may be in their Christian faith.
If due to personal problems and other reasons a Christian gets depressed, it shouldn’t be a cause for their faith to be questioned.
CONCLUSION:
Being depressed as a Christian is very challenging because of the myths and misconceptions we Christians have about depression and other mental illnesses. It is imperative to understand that no matter how spiritual we may be, we are still humans with flesh and blood, and sickness is not something we can completely avoid.
“Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” Luke 6:37 (NKJV). As Christians, let’s focus on helping each other grow spiritually, rather than finding fault and judging each other. Let’s debunk these misconceptions and strive for a better Christian society that is without judgement, but with love and unity as we run the Christian race.
If you are a Christian and are depressed, know that you are not alone. Depression is very common and real whether we choose to believe it or not. You can pray for God’s help, and read and meditate on Bible passages that could help you with depression. And you can speak to someone about your struggles.
As a Christian what other misconceptions do you know, leave a comment below and we can work together on debunking them.
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DISCLAIMER:
The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is provided for general information only.
RECOMMENDATION
If you need help or know someone who needs help with their mental health or mental illness, check out the resource page for mental health resources.
