The explanations for depression are multi-faceted and it would be harmful to ever assume one cause or suggest one solution. For example, circumstantial depression often improves once grief is processed, situations change, or trauma work has been done. Other incidences of depression are known to be well-treated and customized for each individual by implementing various combinations of: vitamins, medication, exercise, sunshine, prayer, creativity, sacrificial service, social interaction, being a good friend, engaging in counseling, rehearsing truth, and pursuing personal development and spiritual growth. However, perhaps a lesser-known consideration is the involvement of spiritual warfare, especially in this current age.

Keeping Depression Temporary

Of course, there is a time to weep (Eccl. 3:4). After all, there’s a lot to grieve and be depressed about in this world. When you’re feeling sad, or even so crippled by depression you can’t get out of bed, your normal momentum is being stymied. Yet, God is ever-present and has given His children a mission that requires action. So, once He says it’s time to arise, He’s there with the strength for you to do so.

Lying Down vs Standing

As you or your loved one contemplates his/her particular affliction of depression, consider the number of times the word “stand” appears in this most famous passage about spiritual warfare:

“Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil… take up the whole armor of God that you be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand, therefore…” (Eph. 6:11-14)

Since God is calling you to stand, it’s not surprising that the devil would want the opposite for you and would be doing everything he can to keep God’s people from being able to stand.

The Spiritual Piece

Ultimately, as you navigate depression in all the ways that work best for you, don’t forget to observe and respond to the possibility that the Enemy wants to keep you down so you won’t stand for God. 

Here are some ways to fight back:

• Think about what you’re thinking about. Make sure your thoughts are more in agreement with the truth, gratitude, and God’s will for your life than negative arguments fueled by the secular world. (2 Cor. 10:5)
• Consider which tricks Satan could be using against you personally to keep you stuck. (2 Cor. 10:4)
• View your relationships through the understanding that there are forces trying to cause negativity and strife between you and those you love. (Eph. 6:12)
• Look for idols in your life (even subtle ones such as a relationship or a otherwise harmless activity) that could be dividing your heart, pulling you away from the Lord’s guidance and protection, and causing your discouragement. (Prov. 2 & 3, James 1:8)

• Be thankful first for your salvation, and then for every other blessing. (Eph. 5:20; 1 Thess. 5:18)
• Pray that you and your loved ones are using God’s armor (Is. 59:17) by living according to His ways, even if that means you’re not accepted by the world’s standards (Eph. 6:10-18).  It can look like:
  • Choosing to replace certain items or activities dabbling in darkness with spiritual items or activities of light (Rom. 13:12, Eph. 6:12, 16)
  • Practicing having faith over fear (Ps. 91:4-5, Eph. 6:16)
  • Speaking much about Him and His salvation (Is. 52:7, Eph. 6:15, 17)
  • Acknowledging He’s the source that makes us good, not our good efforts (Is. 64:6, Eph. 6:14)
  • Daily reading His Word for the purpose of elimination of sin and growth in godliness (Is. 49:2; Eph. 6:17)
  • Encouraging others through intentional language meant to point them to Christ (Eph. 5:18-20, 6:18-20)
  • Trusting that His ways are best (Prov. 30:5, Eph. 6:16)

Prayer & Blessing

“The Lord has opened His armory and has brought out the weapons of His indignation; for this is the work of the Lord God of hosts.” (Jer. 50:25)