Despondency vs. Depression

Depression vs. Despondency. Those of us in ministry need to have a keen eye to discern between the two.

Jonah pleaded for God to take his life. Elijah did the same thing. What's the common thread? Both were in the midst of disobedience. Jonah was angry with God for His compassion on the people of Nineveh. Elijah had run in fear and was hiding in his misery.

Both were despondent, but not depressed. Depression is a medical condition that requires medical treatment. Despondency is a state of mind that almost always corresponds to some form of disobedience. Those of us in ministry, whether we like it or not, are spiritual healers to a degree. Thus, we need to do a better job of diagnosing and prescribing treatment in these cases.

What do you do for cases of depression? Easy - pray and recommend a good medical doctor or counselor. I think Pastors try and play roles that they aren't equipped for too many times. We're Pastors, not licensed counselors.

What do we do when we see despondency, though? That's just as easy really. We pray and encourage the person to begin walking in obedience to what God is calling them to do. In other words, stop throwing a pity party like Jonah and Elijah, get out there and do what you're supposed to be doing. Action is the best treatment for despondency.