It was all he could do to get out of bed. The moment his eyes opened from sleep, the dreaded thoughts came flooding in like a familiar morning fog—the same one that had darkened the skies of his mind, heart, and hope for months, leaving him groping for the pathway out. But none ever seemed to come. 

Depression is an inner darkness the rest of the world can’t see, closing in on us, but it bears a weight beyond our ability to stand up under. For those who haven’t experienced it, it’s almost impossible to understand the viselike grip it holds on its sufferers. But many of us know firsthand the terrors that true depression brings. Every day, it affects more and more people—Christians included. It is a weapon our enemy forges to snuff out the hope and life God provides for His people. 

How can we speak life and offer words of real encouragement to someone struggling with depression? We are warned in the book of Job not to judge, criticize, or patronize others in their pain. Instead, be present with them. We should offer the encouragement of our diligent and persistent friendship, listening to the cries of their heart and waiting with them in their darkness for God’s light to break through. Ask the Lord for His words, His heart, to share in His time, and wait again for the window of opportunity He will provide. The truth, spoken gently in love, sets each of us free. As God’s Word says, “No weapon forged against us will prevail.” 

Life-Giving Words for the Depressed 

“For I know the plans I have for you”—this is the LORD’S declaration—“plans for your well-being, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. You will call to Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you”—this is the LORD’S declaration—“and I will restore your fortunes.” JEREMIAH 29:11–14  

The doors of this prison won’t stay locked forever. Your freedom will come. God promised He has great plans for you. Just keep seeking Jesus and believing His Word. His love never fails. 

Why, my soul, are you so dejected? Why are you in such turmoil? Put your hope in God, for I will still praise Him, my Savior and my God. PSALM 42:5  

Cry out to God from the depth of your despair, like David did. Our honesty allows God access to our soul so He can heal us in the deepest parts. 

Those who trust in the LORD will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not become weary, they will walk and not faint. ISAIAH 40:31  

Trust the Lord while you wait for redemption. Though it may feel like a furnace, God forges authentic faith in the waiting. 

The LORD is the One who will go before you. He will be with you; He will not leave you or abandon you. Do not be afraid or discouraged. DEUTERONOMY 31:8  

God will never leave you nor abandon you. Even in the darkness, He is holding you close, and He’ll never let you go.