2 Corinthians 1:8-11

⁸ We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. ⁹ Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead. ¹⁰ He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, ¹¹ as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.

These verses bring me much solace to know that one of the greatest apostles, who wrote nine epistles in the Bible, a true follower of Jesus Christ, felt despair to the point of having no hope in life itself. It makes me realize that depression is more common than not, and there is in fact a solution for it – Jesus Christ. He renews our spirit and our strength, but if only we would set our hope in Him. You see, Paul explains in these verses, that he and Timothy had been suffering so much that it was unbearable. Then if you go back to the preceding verses in this chapter, you’ll see that Paul praises God, who brought them comfort in their hardship, which would teach them how to comfort other saints in the faith (2 Corinthians 1:3 – 7). If you are currently in a difficult situation and feel hopeless, fix your eyes on Jesus Christ. The only person you can put your hope in and not lose, is the Lord (Isaiah 40:31). That is the only way you will truly overcome your depression. God is always with you, even when you don’t feel Him, and don’t know what words to say in prayer, the Holy Spirit will console you and speak on your behalf – don’t give up (Romans 8:26-27). You will not find renewed strength in drugs, sex, stealing or hurting others, but in the almighty God. He hears, sees, and feels your pain, and is ready to lift you out of the pit if you seek Him (Psalm 23:4, 34:18, 147:3). Whatever you’re going through right now, call on God and He will not only give you peace, but also, deliver you!

Additionally, what I want to note about these verses is that Paul thanks the church of Corinth for their prayers. Call upon those who are trustworthy and prayer warriors in the faith to intercede on your behalf for your deliverance from depression. The prayers of the righteous are powerful and effective (James 5:16)! It’s important to know when you’re going through a hard time that you don’t have to get through it alone, that’s why God gave us the church (Christ’s body).

Dear Father, thank You for Your Spirit of comfort. I’m going through a tough time right now and I see no way out. Please help me to set my focus on You and not the circumstances around me. I hope in You, Lord. Help me to remember that You’re by my side and my deliverance is on its way. I praise Your name in advance. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen!