Bible Verses About Depression

If you feel low, heavy or numb, you are not the first person in Scripture to feel that way. David, Elijah and others brought their despair to God, and he met them there. These verses can comfort you, and they sit alongside, not in place of, help from a doctor or counselor.

11 scriptures in modern King James wording

  1. Psalms 34:18KJV

    “The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saves such as be of a contrite spirit.”

    Compare translations for Psalms 34:18

  2. Psalms 42:11KJV

    “Why are you cast down, O my soul? and why are you disquieted within me? hope you in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.”

    Compare translations for Psalms 42:11

  3. Psalms 40:2KJV

    “He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my activities.”

    Compare translations for Psalms 40:2

  4. Psalms 55:22KJV

    “Cast your burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain you: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.”

    Compare translations for Psalms 55:22

  5. Psalms 94:19KJV

    “In the multitude of my thoughts within me your comforts delight my soul.”

    Compare translations for Psalms 94:19

  6. Psalms 147:3KJV

    “He heals the broken in heart, and binds up their wounds.”

    Compare translations for Psalms 147:3

  7. Psalms 30:5KJV

    “For his anger endures but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.”

    Compare translations for Psalms 30:5

  8. Isaiah 41:10KJV

    “Fear you not; for I am with you: be not dismayed; for I am your God: I will strengthen you; yea, I will help you; yea, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.”

    Compare translations for Isaiah 41:10

  9. Matthew 11:28KJV

    “Come unto me, all you that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

    Compare translations for Matthew 11:28

  10. 2 Corinthians 4:8KJV

    “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;”

    Compare translations for 2 Corinthians 4:8

  11. 1 Peter 5:7KJV

    “Casting all your care upon him; for he cares for you.”

    Compare translations for 1 Peter 5:7

Common questions

What does the Bible say about depression?

The Bible does not use the word, but it shows people in deep despair, including David in the Psalms and Elijah in 1 Kings 19:4. Psalm 34:18 says the LORD is near to the brokenhearted. These verses can offer comfort, and they do not replace care from a doctor or counselor.

What should I do if I feel depressed?

Talk to someone you trust, and consider seeing a doctor or licensed counselor, as you would for any health concern. Scripture and prayer can sit alongside that help. If you are thinking about harming yourself, contact your local emergency number or a crisis line right away.

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