0278. 274. Depression

274. Depression

It is said Mr. Spurgeon on one occasion was greatly depressed, and that one of the officers asked “those who had been converted or blessed under his ministry to rise,” and 1200 rose to their feet. “Now,” said the Deacon, “I charge you all to pray for your pastor.”

Many of God’s servants have got into the mire of depression, and we have the record of some of their experiences, that we may avoid their depressions.

1. David: “I shall one day perish by the hand of Saul” (1Sa_27:1).

2. Job: “Why died I not from the womb?” (Job_3:11).

3. Elijah: “O Lord, take away my life” (1Ki_19:4).

4. Moses: “I am not able to bear all this people” (Num_11:14).

5. Psalmist: “I watch, and am as a sparrow alone upon the housetop” (Psa_102:7).

6. Jeremiah: “Behold, O Lord, for I am in distress” (Lam_1:20).

7. Jonah: “It is better for me to die than to live” (Jon_4:8).

Discontent and disappointment often lead to discouragement, and discouragement leads to depression, and these together will breed despair.

By: DR. F. E. MARSH