(Based on Lamentations chapter 3)

This chapter of Lamentations shows that even men of God were not unaccustomed to feeling depressed. This chapter details Jeremiah’s depressed state and the misery he was experiencing (vss. 1-7). Therefore when the Bible seeks to comfort the depressed it does so from the basis that it understands the dynamics of depression. This chapter divinely raises some pertinent issues for those feeling depressed. It questions whether the cause for such depression is sinfulness. If it is, then it needs to be repented of, and the sinner needs to return to the LORD (vs. 40).

 This chapter also shows us Jeremiah in the midst of his depression recalling to mind the LORD’s goodness and previous acts of kindness to him. He describes this aspect of God’s dealings as His compassions, which fail not, they are new every morning. This is an encouragement to the depressed to walk one day at a time with the LORD. Despite the enormity of whatever circumstances seem to be overwhelming the depressed, God is still compassionate and able to deliver. Jeremiah strove to seek the LORD even though he felt that his prayers were not even being heard (vs. 8). As he persisted even at his lowest emotional state, God spoke to him the comforting words do not fear (vs. 57). This reassured Jeremiah that God was still with him and knew exactly what he was going through.

 A depressed person would do well to be reminded of God’s faithfulness, compassion, and mercy, which is fresh every morning. This knowledge should give them reason for living one day at a time with the LORD during their heavy times. If the cause of depression has been the wrongful actions by others, they will be blessed to see that Lamentations 3 describes God as the Judge who will avenge His people against those who do them harm. The depressed person need not try to take matters into their hands.

Amen.