Depression & the Weeping Prophets

“For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

2 Corinthians 12:10

When I am weak, then I am strong. Today we are going to talk about some “weeping prophets” from the Bible. Did you know that there were more than a few high-profile, well-respected prophets in the Bible who lived with depression? Actually, there are far more than that! These were well-known, God-loving, God-fearing prophets and leaders who dedicated their lives to serving God, but still suffered from depression all the same.

As prophets, they were known for their wisdom and closeness to God; and they served Him in many awe-inspiring ways with their strong faith. But they were also known for their emotional suffering. Let’s take a look at 4 “weeping prophets,” and see if there are any similarities that we can see with our own lives.

Truly Familiar, Noteworthy, and Amazing Stories:

Job—Job was well-known to be a wealthy, God-fearing man. However, one day, he lost his servants, and his livestock due to a series of serious mishaps. He even lost his home and his family in a horrible accident. He suffered many years, then God restored much of what he had lost. But he suffered dearly from depression before God restored his life. “I cry to you, O God, but you don’t answer. I stand before you, but you don’t even look.” Job 30:16-20

Jeremiah—Jeremiah is unofficially been called the “Weeping Prophet.” Lived with lifelong depression, though he had a big job given to him by God himself. His job was to proclaim truth and warn the people to repent. “I have cried until the tears no longer come; my heart is broken.” Lamentations 2:10

King David–(Psalms 6, 13, 18, 23, 25,27) Wrote most of the Book of Psalms but suffered from depression, which actually helped him write the psalms! His writings reveal he was somewhat moody and prone to depression. David had many highs and lows–alternately praising God, and asking God why he wasn’t helping him. Psalm 6:5-7 “I am worn out from sobbing. All night I flood my bed with weeping, drenching it with my tears. My vision is blurred with grief.”

Elijah–(I Kings 19:4) Overwhelmed with fear and anxious about how God’s plans were going to work out. “I have had enough, Lord…I don’t want to live anymore.”

Paul the Apostle—Paul was the most prolific writers of the New Testament, and traveled about 10,000 miles throughout his ministry., though he had a physical thorn that caused him to be depressed and anxious at times. He prayed 3 times for God to remove it, but God told all 3 times: “My grace is sufficient for you. My power is made perfect in weakness.” Clearly, his depression and thorn did not stop him. He continued to press on leading souls to Christ and his writings continue to do so some 2000 years later.

One can only imagine what it was like for these early Christian leaders when they experienced depression. How did they deal with depression or other mental health issues back in biblical times? In a word, very, very differently. Where did the prophets strength and support come from? It came from God himself through prayer. They certainly did not have the wonderful resources we have here in our community today. Counseling, medication, support groups, mental health hotlines, the Health Department Mental Health Services, and the Klein Family Crisis Center among others. There are so many ways we can get the help we need right here in Harford County.  If you are experiencing depression, help is available.  In fact, it’s just a phone call away.

Everyone Gets the Blues Sometimes

Everyone gets the blues and feels sad sometimes. Everyone! You may be reacting to what some call a “bad day,” a challenging relationship issue, or lack of sleep after you’ve tossed and turned all night. You get the idea. It’s only natural that some days just go that way. Some days are better than others. But when those feelings continue for 3 weeks or longer, it may be a symptom of a bigger problem brewing. At that point, you may be experiencing what is called clinical depression, and it may be time to get some professional help to feel better and get back on track.

Today, according to Forbes Health, there are 50 million Americans living with some form of depression. That is about 21% of the US population, and according to the World Health Organization, 280 million people around the world live with depression. Depression can affect anyone at any time, regardless of age, gender, religion, race, or background, however, reports indicate that women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with depression as men. But the important thing to remember is that depression is a most treatable condition, and there is help available!

When a person has depression, they may feel like they are very tired, want to sleep a lot, feel fatigued, and have no energy. They may lose their appetite or increase their appetite. They may stop doing things they previously enjoyed, or have trouble sleeping at night because their minds are racing or can’t stop focusing on things they are worried about all night long. They may feel irritable or cranky; or less confident, and become negative about life in general. Most of all, they may be isolated from other people and feel like they are all alone—very alone. But one thing is for sure: You are not alone! You are anything but…“For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

First and foremost, we need to remember to pray with confidence as we ask Jesus for his help, as well. He will give you hope, encouragement, and comfort in your time of need. Asking God for help for depression or anything else is not a sign of weakness. Rather, it is a sign of tremendous strength. Seek God’s help, and He will help you like no one else can!

Copyright 2023   |    Adele M. Gill

The Inspiration Café Podcast & Blog with Adele

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