cripture reveals the stories of several saints who struggled with depression-often despairing of life itself. We read of Jeremiah, who cried out, "Cursed be the day I was born! May the day my mother bore me not be blessed!" (Jer. 20:14). Through-out the Psalms is recorded the depths of despair David experienced-even doubting the presence of God: "My soul is full of trouble and my life draws near the grave" (Ps. 88:3). "Why, O Lord, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?" (Ps. 10:1).

And Job. His story, especially in regard to his three "friends," gives us some insight into how not to relate to one suffering from severe depression. Read Job 1-4, 38, and 42 (read the entire book if possible), and answer the following questions:

• What thoughts conveyed Job's depression? Have you had similar thoughts?
• After reading "Depression: A Personal Story" and Job 4, how would you act differently when comforting a depressed friend?
• In Job 38 the Lord speaks to him. Does the Lord chastise Job for being depressed? What is His main emphasis? How does the Lord respond to Job's friends in chapter 42?
• What does this story say to you about how God relates to depression?

_________________________
Bonita Joyner Shields is an assistant editor of the Adventist Review.