Re: Christians and Depression: One Pastor's Story

It is about time that the Christian community addresses this. It is a very real, I feel... illness. It can destroy people and families.It is good to hear a pastor tell his story.We rush to doctor with other illnesses. If we found out we had cancer, wouldn't we get that treated?

Re: Christians and Depression: One Pastor's Story

Dear Wyman,

Yes, thank you for the post. Normally, I get little if any response from the articles I write for our church newsletter. One notable exception was an article I wrote on depression and the encouragement to seek help. A number of people thanked me for writing it.

Also, this is a personal issue for me. Though I have not suffered from clinical depression I finally came to the conclusion that for some time I had been enduring a season of depression relating to specific circumstances of serving in Santa Fe, a very difficult place to minister. I contacted a professional biblical counselor and arranged for a series of sessions. With my counselor's help I was able to allow the Holy Spirit to pull me out of a real emotional hole. I have been in a much better emotional place since.

I haven't shared this personal testimony with the First Family yet, but I know I will when the time is right. I share this with you now so that it might encourage other pastors who read your blog that, as Marcia wrote, there should be no embarrassment in seeking help when we are emotionally and/or spiritually ill.

God wants us whole. He has provided qualified brothers and sisters in Christ to help keep us whole. May we allow others to use their gifts to our benefit.

With sincere appreciation, Lee

Re: Christians and Depression: One Pastor's Story

Marcia,

I agree 100%. It's very unfortunate that many Christian circles view the very idea of depression with suspicion. Frankly, I used to as well, but shortly after I became a pastor and started listening to good Christian people share their struggles, I thought, "Wait. This stuff really is real." Thanks for your thoughts!

Lee,

Thank you brother, for your comments. Your personal story resonates with me in ways you'll never know. I do wonder if we could get a bunch of pastors to really be honest for a few moments if we wouldn't find that a very high percentage of clergy suffer from this or something like it. I'll simply say that Tommy Nelson's testimony here was eery for me to hear. I know the Lord will show you the right time for you to share your story more fully! You've had a great impact on my life.

W

Re: Christians and Depression: One Pastor's Story

Lee ,
My father was a pastor and during his time in seminary,went thru a time of depression, he sought help himself, he was able to overcome at that time.. Also, my mother, as well as my brother suffer from this illness, and I know if it isn't treated , as I said before , can be a destroyer. That statement comes from the fact that my Grandfather, in the 60's committed suicide. I know well that the Lord is big enough to handle anything we go thru, but he does give us doctors to help as well as medicine. My family would say to one who is going thru this. Seek help as soon as possible! You can get thru it. My grandfather was a Christian man, who at the time didn't know what was going on in his life. His life and personality was such that this action caught everyone by surprise. I'm thankful that now much more is known about this illness. Marcia

Re: Christians and Depression: One Pastor's Story

I feel that I need to add, that I have permission from my family to talk a bout our story. If it will help someone else,that would be great. Marcia

Re: Christians and Depression: One Pastor's Story

Marcia,

I appreciate the testimony very much. It's very helpful!

W