Woman showing anxiety and depression sitting on floor head on her knees arms wrapped around knees

Introduction

Ever felt overwhelmed by the ups and downs of life? You’re not alone. Whether it’s the relentless worry that keeps you up at night or the heavy weight of sadness that seems to linger no matter what you do, navigating anxiety and depression can be tough. Bible verses about anxiety and depression KJV can help you through rough times like these.

The Bible offers hope even in a bleak situation and in our darkest moments. And even when we feel anxious or depressed, God loves us. He will never leave us nor forsake us. He won’t.

One way God stays with us even when we have a broken heart, grieve, or feel anxious all the time without reason is through His Word. There are so many powerful Bible verses about anxiety and depression that can help us through those times of life.

In this blog, we’re gonna explore how King James Version (KJV) Bible verses can help with anxiety and depression. We’ll dive into the details of these mental health challenges, from understanding the differences to finding practical ways to feel better God’s way. And we’ll discover what does the bible say about anxiety KJV.

We’ll also explore the heart of the matter: how the Bible speaks directly to our experiences of anxiety and depression, by reading Bible quotes about anxiety. From reminders of God’s faithfulness and character to practical tips on how to lean on His promises in times of need, you’ll find a wealth of wisdom and encouragement to guide you through the storms of life.

So grab a cup of tea, cozy up, and let’s embark on this journey and Bible study for anxiety and depression. There’s hope ahead, friend.

Difference between anxiety and depression

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Before we dive into what God says about anxiety and depression, let’s have a look at the difference between the two. Even though both are considered as a mental illness, there is a distinction.

  • Anxiety is like having a constant feeling of worry or fear, even when there’s no immediate danger. Imagine your mind racing, your heart pounding, and feeling restless all the time, like you’re always on high alert and expecting something bad to happen.
  • Depression feels more like a deep sadness or emptiness that you can’t shake off. It’s like having no energy or interest in things you used to enjoy, feeling hopeless, and often wanting to withdraw from people and activities. It’s as if a heavy cloud is hanging over you, making everything seem bleak and hard to deal with.

So, while an anxiety disorder is more about constant worry and fear, a state of depression is about persistent sadness and lack of motivation. Sometimes, people can experience both at the same time, but they each have their distinct feelings and challenges.

Whether it’s anxiety or depression, they both contribute to feeling down. If you suffer from any of them (or both) as a Christian, you may suffer more. Because you may experience guilt for the fact of feeling depressed and anxious while you are a Christian. You tell yourself it’s because of a lack of faith.

You may think you shouldn’t be feeling this way as a Christian. But should you feel guilty or bad if you suffer from any of the above as a believer? What does god say about anxiety? When guilt comes in, it’s probably from the enemy. As he blows guilt into our minds and hearts. Not God.

So then, what does the bible say about anxiety attacks and clinical depression? We’ll find out by studying Bible verses about anxiety and depression KJV.

What does God say about anxiety KJV?

There is no condemnation from God for our depression. Romans 8 verse 1 (KJV) says:

“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.”

This scripture is clear. When you are in Christ Jesus (a believer, a Christian, a child of God), God will NOT condemn you. There are no exclusions. It doesn’t state: no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus and are not anxious or depressed. It doesn’t!  

God knows we are human—He created us. He knows we aren’t perfect. And He knows we have feelings and emotions and can get overwhelmed. Various life events, such as death, illness, job loss, divorce, or trauma, can cause grief and discouragement as natural aspects of the human experience. All of those difficult times (and many more) can cause anxiety and depression.

The good news is that’s why He sent His Son, Christ Jesus, to come and die for us. To take all our suffering and pain and stress upon Him.

So, what does the Bible say about depression and anxiety? Is it bad to feel that way as a Christian? No. Nowhere in God’s Word does it say we aren’t good enough if we feel anxious or depressed. God’s love for us is bigger than that!

When we are in hard times and become depressed or anxious, God will not judge us. He will rather want to calm your anxious heart. Let’s look at Bible quotes about anxiety that can help us get through.

How does the Bible say to get rid of anxiety?

What does the bible say about overcoming depression? The Word of God is full of Bible verses about anxiety and depression KJV and offers several ways to address and overcome anxiety and depression.

Let’s look at the key principles and scripture verses that guide how to overcome anxiety biblically. Each principle comes with Bible verses to get rid of anxiety

Steps to overcome anxiety and depression biblically:

  • Trust in God: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)
  • Prayer and Supplication: “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 (KJV)
  • Cast Your Cares on God: “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 (KJV)
  • Focus on God’s Promises: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” Isaiah 26:3 (KJV)
  • Seek God’s Kingdom: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” Matthew 6:33-34 (KJV)
  • Meditate on God’s Word: “Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.” Psalm 119:165 (KJV)
  • Rely on God’s Strength: “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.” 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (KJV)
  • Be Thankful: “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (KJV)
  • Remember God’s Presence: “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.” Psalm 23:4 (KJV)

These principles and Bible quotes about anxiety and depression will help you how to deal with anxiety biblically. Don’t forget to ask for help from family members. It’s important to have loved ones around you who understand you and can encourage you. And if you keep feeling like drowning, consider getting professional help besides focusing on God and His Word (do both).

An overall powerful way to get rid of anxiety and depression is by reading, studying, and meditating on Bible scriptures for anxiety and depression. Do this during your Christian morning routine and be sure to start the day right.

If you feel like giving up, pray for focus and motivation to go on. God will answer you.

Ask the Holy Spirit to help you.

What is the best Bible verse for anxiety and depression KJV?

So, what are some bible verses for anxiety and depression? God’s Word is full of soothing verses and reminders of God’s faithfulness in dark times. We can encourage ourselves with Bible Scriptures and use them to get rid of anxiety and depression.

Here is a list of the best Bible verses about anxiety and depression KJV. I organized them in categories, so you can easily use them in any situation you encounter. Don’t give up! Help is on the way. God loves you.

The below Bible quotes for anxiety and depression serve as reminders of the truth of God’s Word. When we remember them, speak them aloud over our lives, whisper in our minds, or ponder about them, we encourage ourselves in God’s Word.

Bible verses about God’s faithfulness

  • “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” Isaiah 26:3 (KJV)
  • “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1 (KJV)
  • “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.” Psalm 23:6 (KJV)
  • “The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.” Psalm 9:9 (KJV)
  • “Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee.” Psalm 143:8 (KJV)
  • “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.” Romans 15:13 (KJV)
  • “And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:” Matthew 6:28 (KJV)
  • “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” Isaiah 41:10 (KJV)

Bible verses about God’s character

  • “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort.” 2 Corinthians 1:3 (KJV)
  • “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1 (KJV)
  • “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” Psalm 34:18 (KJV)
  • “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27 (KJV)
  • “But thou, Israel, art my servant, Jacob whom I have chosen, the seed of Abraham my friend.” Isaiah 41:8 (KJV)

Bible verses about what God has done for us in the past

  • “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.” Psalm 23:4 (KJV)
  • “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.” Psalm 40:2 (KJV)
  • “I will sing unto the Lord, because he hath dealt bountifully with me.” Psalm 13:6 (KJV)
  • “The Lord hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.” Psalm 126:3 (KJV)
  • “And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord.” Psalm 40:3 (KJV)
  • “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” John 8:36 (KJV)
  • “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.” 1 Peter 2:9 (KJV)

Bible verses about God’s love for us

  • “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” Jeremiah 29:11 (KJV)
  • “The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.” Jeremiah 31:3 (KJV)
  • “He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.” Psalm 23:2 (KJV)
  • “Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?” Matthew 6:26 (KJV)

Bible verses about what to do when we feel anxious or depressed

  • “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7 (KJV)
  • “Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad.” Proverbs 12:25 (KJV)
  • “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)
  • “Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.” Psalm 27:14 (KJV)
  • “The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.” Psalm 34:17 (KJV)
  • “In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul.” Psalm 94:19 (KJV)
  • “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” Romans 8:26 (KJV)
  • “And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.” James 5:15 (KJV)
  • “Have mercy upon me, O Lord, for I am in trouble: mine eye is consumed with grief, yea, my soul and my belly.” Psalm 31:9 (KJV)
  • “And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” Deuteronomy 6:5 (KJV)
  • “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” Philippians 4:8 (KJV)

Bible verses to remind us of how precious we are in God’s sight

  • “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” Psalm 139:14 (KJV)
  • “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV)
  • “For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” 1 Corinthians 6:20 (KJV)
  • “Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.” Luke 12:6-7 (KJV)
  • “Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.” Romans 8:37 (KJV)
  • “Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honourable, and I have loved thee: therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life.” Isaiah 43:4 (KJV)

Enter your Christian prayer room and read those Bible verses about anxiety and depression KJV to encourage yourself and remind yourself of God’s goodness. The more you do this, the better you will feel. Your anxiety and depression will disappear—even if you have suffered for a long time.

Make sure not to focus on God’s Word in the morning only. Make it a habit to remind yourself of those verses throughout the day whenever you need it. A good way to help yourself do that is by memorizing the scriptures. You can also use them as Biblical affirmations.

A great way to remind yourself of the love of God in difficult situations, and to help you remember who you really are (if you weren’t anxious or depressed), is by reading Bible verses about who you are in Christ.

Who in the Bible suffered anxiety and depression?

When you read the Word of God, you’ll find out that indeed depression and anxiety are normal occurrences in humans. Even the so-called ‘biggest’ men of faith in the Bible suffered from depression or anxiety at times during their span of life. The thing is, they didn’t stay in that state.

Anxiety, and especially depression, can lead to you wanting to end your life. Well, several famous people of the Bible have felt that way! Yet, they are described in the Bible as people of faith. So, again, God does not condemn you or exclude you if you feel anxious or depressed.

So, who in the Bible suffered anxiety and depression? Who was depressed in the Bible?

Here is an overview, in chronological order, of biblical figures who felt anxious and/or depressed. Each comes with a Bible reference in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible.

Moses: Moses faced periods of intense frustration and despair while leading the Israelites.

  • Numbers 11:14-15: “I am not able to bear all this people alone, because it is too heavy for me. And if thou deal thus with me, kill me, I pray thee, out of hand, if I have found favour in thy sight; and let me not see my wretchedness.”

Hannah: Hannah experienced deep anguish and sorrow over her childlessness before God granted her a son, Samuel.

  • 1 Samuel 1:10: “And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the Lord, and wept sore.”
  • 1 Samuel 1:15-16: “And Hannah answered and said, No, my lord, I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit: I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but have poured out my soul before the Lord. Count not thine handmaid for a daughter of Belial: for out of the abundance of my complaint and grief have I spoken hitherto.”

Saul: King Saul shows signs of severe psychological distress:

  • 1 Samuel 16:14: “But the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord troubled him.”

David: David’s writings in the Psalms often reflect profound sadness and a sense of despair, indicative of depression, as well as anxious thoughts.

  • Psalm 38:6: “I am troubled; I am bowed down greatly; I go mourning all the day long.”
  • Psalm 42:5: “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.”

Elijah: Elijah experienced what seems to be deep depression and hopelessness after a significant spiritual victory, when he feared for his life because of Jezebel’s threats.

  • 1 Kings 19:4: “But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.”

Naomi: Naomi felt deep bitterness and sorrow after losing her husband and sons.

  • Ruth 1:20-21: “And she said unto them, Call me not Naomi, call me Mara: for the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the Lord hath brought me home again empty: why then call ye me Naomi, seeing the Lord hath testified against me, and the Almighty hath afflicted me?”

Job: Job’s extensive sufferings led him to express feelings of intense despair and depression.

  • Job 3:11: “Why died I not from the womb? why did I not give up the ghost when I came out of the belly?”
  • Job 7:15-16: “So that my soul chooseth strangling, and death rather than my life. I loathe it; I would not live alway: let me alone; for my days are vanity.”

Jonah: Jonah felt deep despair and frustration, especially after God spared Nineveh.

  • Jonah 4:3: “Therefore now, O Lord, take, I beseech thee, my life from me; for it is better for me to die than to live.”

Jeremiah: Jeremiah often expressed deep sorrow and a sense of hopelessness, which aligns with depression.

  • Jeremiah 20:14, 18: “Cursed be the day wherein I was born: let not the day wherein my mother bare me be blessed… Wherefore came I forth out of the womb to see labour and sorrow, that my days should be consumed with shame?”

Paul: the Apostle Paul spoke about the pressure and anxiety he felt for the churches he was nurturing.

  • 2 Corinthians 1:8: “For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life.”
  • Philippians 2:27-28: “For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.”

These people in the Bible felt anxious and depressed, just like us. It shows that these struggles have been around ‘forever’.

Even the Lord Jesus felt severe anxiety and stress. As our High Priest, He can sympathize with our feelings.

Jesus: In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus experienced extreme anguish and sorrow, which can be akin to anxiety and depression.

  • Matthew 26:37-38: “And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me.”

I pray the insights and these Bible verses about anxiety and depression KJV in this blog are a blessing to you and help you on your way to overcoming anxiety and depression.

Take-away Bible verses about anxiety and depression KJV

As we wrap up our journey through Bible verses about anxiety and depression KJV), it’s clear that these Scriptures offer more than just solace—they provide a lifeline of hope amid life’s storms. They can help us through the dark periods of anxiety and depression.

These verses are powerful reminders of God’s unfailing love and faithfulness. We can remind ourselves of God’s love, faithfulness, and character for us, even if we are feeling bad. God’s Word calls us to trust in Him, to cast our burdens upon Him, and to find strength in His promises.

So, as you navigate the highs and lows of life, may you hold fast to these timeless truths, knowing that you are never alone. God is with you, His Word is your anchor, and His love will carry you through.