What does the Bible say about anxiety and depression?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible meets anxiety and depression with God’s compassionate presence, wise care, and a call to trust him amid real suffering. Isaiah 41:10 and Joshua 1:9 assure believers that God is with them and strengthens them, while 1 Peter 5:7 invites them to cast every care on him because he cares. Philippians 4:6-8 directs troubled hearts toward prayer, thanksgiving, and minds shaped by God’s truth and peace. Proverbs 12:25 acknowledges that anxiety weighs the heart down, yet a good word brings joy. Christians may seek prayer, fellowship, medical help, and other ordinary means of grace, trusting God’s sovereign purposes even when relief is slow.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • Isaiah 41:10

    Don't you be afraid, for I am with you; don't be dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you; yes, I will help you; yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.

  • Philippians 4:6-8

    [6] In nothing be anxious, but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus. [8] Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things.

  • 1 Peter 5:7

    casting all your worries on him, because he cares for you.

  • Proverbs 3:5-6

    [5] Trust in Yahweh with all your heart, And don't lean on your own understanding. [6] In all your ways acknowledge him, And he will direct your paths.

  • Proverbs 12:25

    Anxiety in a man's heart weighs it down, But a kind word makes it glad.

  • 1 Corinthians 10:13

    No temptation has taken you except what is common to man. God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able, but will with the temptation also make the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

  • Matthew 6:34

    Therefore don't be anxious for tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Each day's own evil is sufficient.

  • Joshua 1:9

    Haven't I commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; don't be afraid, neither be dismayed: for Yahweh your God is with you wherever you go.

  • Jeremiah 29:11

    For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says Yahweh, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you hope in your latter end.

  • James 5:15

    and the prayer of faith will heal him who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.

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