Depression can make you feel hopeless, worthless, and empty. It colors everything gray and weighs you down. When depression hits the hardest, it can feel impossible to see any kind of light or hope in your situation.
Where do you turn for encouragement when depression tries to take over?
Bible Verses for Hope in Depression
The Bible offers a lot of hope. When depression feels like it’s taking over, these Bible verses remind you that God is stronger than depression—and he’s close to you at your darkest times.
Psalm 34:18
“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.”
Matthew 11:28
“Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.’”
Psalm 147:3
“[God] heals the brokenhearted and bandages all their wounds.”
Psalm 23:4
“Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.”
Deuteronomy 31:8
“Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you.”
2 Corinthians 12:9
“Each time [Jesus] said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.”
Psalm 42:11
“Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again—my Savior and my God!”
John 1:5
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.”
John 8:12
“Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, ‘I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.’”
What to Do If You’re Battling Depression
Comfort doesn’t always come instantly. But there are practical choices you can make each day that will help you experience God’s comfort when life feels overwhelming:
1. Spend time reading the Bible every day. Even a few minutes can change your outlook. Start with one of the verses above—read it slowly, pray through it, and ask God to show you how it applies to your situation. Or, check out one of these Bible Reading Plans:
2. Talk honestly with God. You don’t have to have the right words—or any words at all. God wants to meet you and bring comfort and healing, no matter what kind of darkness or despair you’re walking through. Tell him how you’re feeling and ask him to carry it for you.
3. Stay connected with others. Depression can be isolating. Staying there can make it even worse. Comfort often comes through the people God places in our lives. Reach out to a friend, join a Group, or ask someone to pray with you.
4. Consider professional help. Depression is a diagnosable mental health condition, and there are professionals like psychiatrists and counselors who are experts in treating it. If self-help doesn’t work—or if your depression keeps getting worse—it may be time for more specialized help. (If you need help finding a counselor, let us know!)
5. Remember that healing takes time. God’s comfort doesn’t always remove the struggle, but he promises to walk with you through it. He’s working, even if you don’t see it right now.
Depression isn’t forever, even if it feels like it right now. You deserve to find hope—and one day, you will. In the meantime, small steps like these can help move you closer to healing.
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This article is intended to offer encouragement and practical help for everyday struggles with depression. If you are experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, we strongly encourage you to get help. reach out to a licensed mental health professional, a doctor, or a trusted pastor or counselor as soon as possible. If you are in immediate danger or thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or contact local emergency services right away.
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