depression, gratitude and Charles Spurgeon – part 2

Sometimes depression can be a preparation for something greater.  Charles Spurgeon knew this well.  He preached through adversity.  How?  He saw ‘his depression as the design of God for the good of his ministry and the glory of Christ’.

These are but two excerpts written about him that clearly show how he allowed God to use him just the way he was:

For the suffering that he endured was tremendous, and at times overwhelming, yet he would say that it was during these times that he truly longed for, because during these times he could do nothing else but to draw near to his Savior and Lord. This is when Spurgeon would climb under the wings of refuge, and gain his strength in spirit, mind, and will, to do his part in fulfilling the great commission.  

Spurgeon was no stranger to depression, and therefore his words have all the more credibility. And as Spurgeon was a great champion of God’s sovereignty in all things, he serves as a reminder that people of great faith and trust in God can nonetheless be brought low in depression. While that thought may be depressing to those who haven’t known much depression, it will be liberating to those who have.

Why are you in despair, O my soul? And why have you become disturbed within me? Hope in God, for I shall again praise Him for the help of His presence.

Psalm 42:5 NAS

pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 NAS