Spiritual Depression
Gary DeLashmutt
1 Kings 19:1-18
After taking part in a glorious victory for God, Elijah falls into a deep and life threatening spiritual depression. This teaching brings light to the most common causes of depression (both spiritual and not), as well as the way in which God restores us to a healthier state of mind. There are four main causes for Elijah's depression that we can apply to ourselves, namely: 1.) unrealistic expectations; 2.) physical and emotional exhaustion; 3.) isolation from people; and 4.) a Messiah complex. Beneath all four of these causes lie a destructive attitude of self-sufficiency or pride. God restores people out of spiritual depression, not by forcing them back on their feet, but by gently and mercifully teaching them to depend on Him. God kindly corrects Elijah's skewed perspective with His truth, and Elijah recovers from a depression that could have ruined his life.