In times of distress, it’s easy to feel like God is nowhere to be found. That may be what you feel or think, but our feelings can lie to us, especially when we are experiencing depression. 

In April, Pastor John MacArthur made some comments about PTSD, OCD, and ADHD that have created a firestorm of discussion among Christians about the subject of mental health. Some believers strongly disagree with him; others agree. I think this is a good opportunity for Christians to think critically about this subject, and have honest conversations about mental health and where our approach needs adjusting.

Feeling depressed after such a heartbreaking loss is a normal reaction to the abnormal reality of death in our cursed world. It is one of several stages you may pass through on your way through the “valley of dark shadows.” Learning to lean on your Good Shepherd’s arm through this valley (which, contrary to your current feelings does have an end) will go far in helping you bear your pain. Below, you’ll find several resources that may be a helpful starting point for you.

Your writing did not give me a clear picture of where you stand with Jesus. I understand that you believe in God. Have you surrendered your body and soul to Jesus and trusted in His once-for-all blood sacrifice on your behalf?

In light of Nanci’s departure to be with Jesus four weeks ago, a kind sister reached out to me, saying she was hoping and praying that I felt the closeness of Jesus. I told her that I do indeed sense His closeness. At the same time, grief and sometimes depression come upon me in waves. But they do not drive out Jesus or the Holy Spirit, both of whom indwell me (Romans 8:8-11).

The topic of anxiety, and the advice Doreen gives in her article, are timely. The Lord does not call us merely to release our anxiety to Him, but to willingly cast it upon Him—all of it. God wants us to trust Him in both the big things and the little things. I hope this article will encourage you to do so.

I appreciated the following interview by Vaneetha Rendall Risner with author and professor Terry Powell about depression, the Christian life, and the holidays. I loved what he shared about his dog, and really all of what he had to say. It’s excellent.

Christians certainly aren’t immune to depression and suicidal thoughts. I have known depression first-hand at different times in my life. Several years ago, for no apparent reason, a cloud of depression descended on me.

During this global pandemic, depression and suicidal thoughts are on the rise. That makes the release of the short book Encouragement for the Depressed, with a sermon from Charles Spurgeon, timely.