Comments on: Of Course Christians Can Be Depressed

By: chris

chris — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 15:53:58 +0000

Having been through depression and maintaining card carrying status as a “real Christian” (as opposed to an artificial one), I totally affirm you here.

Above, there is a comment that points out that depression is not a fault of a Spirit filled soul, but a consequence of sin present in the world. Granted, those who lived and wrote the Hebrew Testament weren’t “Christians” per se, a quick survey through the Psalms reveals hard times, spiritual struggles, deep depression and strands of faith that weave it all together.

By: Heather Smith

Heather Smith — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 15:41:08 +0000

I think this is a message that so many need to hear. I wonder how many Christians avoid biblical counseling because at their lowest moments, the last thing they want to hear is a professional therapist blaming them for their own feelings of depression or sadness….to have someone add to the burden with “homework”…assignments of more bible reading or more quiet time is something many cannot muster up the energy to even attempt. I can only imagine how discouraging it would be to have someone tell you that you just aren’t trying hard enough or doing the “right” things to be healed. God has gifted so many with the gifts needed to walk alongside those that need help, those that need someone to show them the way to healing and those that need encouragement. I am blessed to be married to one!

By: Beloved Spear

Beloved Spear — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 14:37:11 +0000

One of the challenges that I think some Christians have with depression is that they view it as a malady of the spirit. It is, in a way, but it is also something that has deep roots in our flesh. That a “spiritual affliction” can be significantly ameliorated with pharmaceuticals just..well..it doesn’t compute for some folks.

Moving away from a dualistic approach to soul and body would help here, but that wholistic vision of our created selves is more than many can embrace.

By: Jonathan Louie

Jonathan Louie — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 18:36:52 +0000

I agree that just as a body can become sick, so can a soul.

God is glorified when the church helps each other out of difficult times such as depression. One major thing I’ve learned this year is that since the church as the body of Christ, when the church helps each other through rough times, it is in fact God working. I wouldn’t say I was depressed, but could see I was going there. When fellow believers came around me and walked the journey with me, God gave guidance and deliverance.

God is glorified in the redemption of our lives as well as in His gracious power to keep us from landing on hard times.
Sorry, forgot to add great post! Can’t wait to see your next post!

By: Jonathan Louie

Jonathan Louie — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 17:43:20 +0000

I agree that just as a body can become sick, so can a soul.

God is glorified in the redemption of our lives as well as in His gracious power to keep us from landing on hard times.