Depression: The Stubborn Darkness

Free for a limited time! Stream or download all four sessions below.

These talks were given by Ed Welch at our 2003 National Conference: Hope for the Suffering.

Part 1

Ed Welch’s interest in the topic of depression stems from walking with many people through their struggle. Ed discusses 5 different causes of suffering as shown in Scripture. He answers the questions, “What does Jesus Christ have to do with clinical depression and suffering?” and “How does Scripture give hope?” He shows us how to make the cries of the Psalms personal to our own suffering.

Part 2

In this continuation of Part 1, Ed discusses the following topics: counseling non-Christians, spiritual warfare, lies we are prone to believe, truths about God that we can cling to, and how Scripture offers hope when our suffering doesn’t disappear.

Part 3

In this continuation of Part 2, Ed engages the question, “How can perseverance be attractive, lively, and something we aspire to in the midst of depression?” He gives helpful and hope-giving Scripture to those struggling to endure through depression, including the manna principle from Exodus 16 (God gives grace for today). He also discusses two main factors involved in depression: 1) things that come at us and 2) things that come out of us. He also discusses questions about medicine in relation to depression. 

Part 4

In this fourth and concluding session, Ed Welch continues his discussion about medicine and depression from a biblical perspective. He encourages that “to take” or “not to take” medicine requires wisdom for each situation. He also covers topics of failure, shame, suicide/death, humility, hope, joy and thankfulness.