Verses for Depression

Short Answer

Depression is heavy and real. God doesn't ask you to "snap out of it." He meets you in the darkness and sits with you until the light returns.

5 Verses for Light

1. Psalm 40:1-2

"I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand." Why it helps: It validates the feeling of being in a "pit" and promises that God can lift you out.

2. Psalm 34:18

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Why it helps: God is especially near when you feel shattered.

3. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort..." Why it helps: God's nature is to comfort, not to condemn you for feeling low.

4. Psalm 42:11

"Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God." Why it helps: The psalmist talks to his own soul, acknowledging the sadness but choosing hope.

5. 1 Kings 19:5-7

(The story of Elijah) God let him sleep and gave him food when he wanted to give up. Why it helps: Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is nap and eat. God understands physical exhaustion.

Reflection Prompts

1. Am I being gentle with myself today?
2. Can I find just one small spark of hope or gratitude?
3. Who can I text to say "I'm having a hard day"?

A Prayer for Depression

Jesus, I have no words. I just hurt. Please come and sit with me. Hold me when I can't hold myself together. I'm waiting for the morning. Be my strength when I have none left. Amen.