DEPRESSION - PRACTICAL ANSWERS FROM the BIBLESample

1 Thessalonians 5:16 (NLT): Always be joyful.

Philippians 4:4 (NLT): Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice!

Can a Christian be depressed?

Do you know the children's song that says, "Always happy come rain or shine, let us be as the Gospel says, happy and joyful"?

Indeed, many verses in the Bible encourage us to be content in all circumstances. After all, Jesus saved us and forgave our sins. He gave us his joy.

In Christian circles, we may often feel this imperative to be happy. At church gatherings, everyone seems so joyful!

But maybe you do not share this feeling in the secret of your heart. Dark thoughts invade you, and you cannot get rid of them. Everything seems so bland. You are tired and do not feel like doing anything. So, you put on a mask, pretending that all is well because you want to "remain a Christian."

You sincerely love God but are lost when faced with people whose only answers to your questions are "Pray more. Trust the Lord. Read your Bible more..."

Do not despair! Yes, a Christian can be depressed. The Bible gives us many examples, explains the causes, and offers us tangible and practical solutions to get us out of it.

WARNING: Never stop medical treatment without consulting your doctor!