Depression is perhaps the most devastating of the “wiles of the devil” inasmuch as the devil gathers up the condemnation, doubt, fear, evil thoughts and imaginations that plague us and wraps them in despair, leaving us with an overwhelming sense of hopelessness.
Many of God’s people throughout the ages have known firsthand what it is to be depressed. You might be surprised to find that both the psalmist and the apostle Paul experienced depression. Listen to their words:
In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord; my hand was stretched out in the night without ceasing; my soul refused to be comforted. I remembered God, and was troubled; I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. You hold my eyelids open; I am so troubled that I cannot speak. Psalm 77:2–4
We were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life. 2 Corinthians 1:8b
Others Who Have Suffered
Church history provides many examples as well of those who have suffered from depression. William Cowper, the great English poet and hymn writer, battled manic-depression throughout his life.
Charles Spurgeon said, “I am the subject of depressions of spirit so fearful that I hope none of you ever get to such extremes of wretchedness as I go to.”
So we see that God’s people are not exempt from depression. Everyone suffers from depression from time to time, some more frequently and more severely than others. Next week, we will address how to deal with it.