Bible Verses for Depression
When the weight is heavy and hope feels distant, these verses speak gently of a God who stays, even in the dark.
The Bible speaks to depression. Verses such as Psalms 34:18, John 8:12, and Psalms 42:5 remind us that God is near, that we can bring our hearts to him, and that we are not alone in it.
“The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.”
Psalms 34:18“Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.”
John 8:12“Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.”
Psalms 42:5“The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.”
Isaiah 9:2“The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.”
Matthew 4:16“Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.”
Psalms 42:11“And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.”
John 1:5“If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.”
Psalms 139:8“For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”
2 Corinthians 4:6“He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.”
Psalms 40:2“Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.”
Isaiah 60:1“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”
Psalms 23:4
These verses are offered for comfort and are not a substitute for professional care. If you are struggling, please reach out to someone you trust, a doctor, or a counselor. In the US you can call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, any time.
A new verse every morning, chosen for your heart, in the app.
Common questions
What does the Bible say about depression?
The Bible speaks to depression. Verses such as Psalms 34:18, John 8:12, and Psalms 42:5 remind us that God is near, that we can bring our hearts to him, and that we are not alone in it.
What is the best Bible verse for depression?
Psalms 34:18 is one of the most turned-to verses for depression, and many also return to John 8:12 and Psalms 42:5. The best verse is the one that meets you where you are today; read a few slowly and keep the one that steadies you.
What are short Bible verses for depression?
Short, easy-to-hold verses for depression include John 1:5, Isaiah 60:1, and Psalms 139:8. A single line, read slowly and carried through the day, can quiet a hard moment.
Which Psalm helps with depression?
Psalms 34:18 is a comforting psalm for depression. The Psalms give honest words for what the heart feels, from sorrow to trust, which is why so many return to them.
How can I use these Bible verses for depression?
Read one verse slowly, take a breath, and turn it into a short prayer in your own words. Keep it somewhere you will see it, and let it be a companion through the day rather than a task to finish.