Anxiety and depression have many causes. None of our bodies are perfectly healthy. Imbalances in our physiology can cause us to suffer emotional disturbances. Is poor emotional health due to the devil? Not necessarily.
The Apostle Paul experienced anxiety and depression, “For we do not want you to be unaware, brethren, of our affliction…we were burdened excessively, beyond our strength, so that we despaired even of life…” 2 Corinthians 1:8. Paul was not dragging a physical burden; he was weighed down emotionally. He was so depressed that he thought he might even die.
Elijah also suffered from depression, “But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life…” 1 Kings 19:4
God responded by helping both of them. In Elijah’s case, an angel gave him food. Elijah’s body was strengthened, and he recovered.
Paul recorded that God “delivered us from so great a death…ye also helping together by prayer for us…” 2 Corinthians 1:10,11. In neither case were their emotional struggles attributed to the devil.
Today, we have many helps to aid us. First, we can pray God’s promises.
“O my god, in you I trust…for you I wait all the day long. Remember your mercy, O LORD, and your steadfast love…” Psalms 25:2-7.
“But God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” 2 Timothy 1:7.
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you…let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” John 14:27.
There are so many comforting scriptures where God tells us He will sooth our hearts.
We have Paul’s admonition to meditate on things that are true, honorable, upright, holy, beautiful, virtuous, and praiseworthy in Philippians 4:8. Sometimes deciding to focus our minds on the good (and not ruminating on the sad or ugly) can change our feelings. Listen to Christian music, attend Bible studies and enjoy Christian fellowship!
Science has additionally found that physical exercise, like walking 30 minutes daily, and eating more fruits and vegetables can begin to heal our body and emotions. However, if you still feel stuck, then perhaps it may be wise to find a good Christian counselor. God wants you to feel better; He loves you!
Additional Resources:
Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1124: “Does My Anxiety or Depression Invalidate My Christianity? (Part I)”
Understanding how anxiety and depression affect my Christianity
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
Episode #1125: “Does My Anxiety or Depression Invalidate My Christianity? (Part II)”
Revealing the protective building blocks needed to repel my anxiety
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
Episode #1126: “How Do We Cope With Anxiety and Depression in Our Kids? (Part III)”
Learning to accept and manage our kid’s emotional challenges
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes
