Is There Hope When Darkness Feels Like My Only Friend? (Psalm 88) | Daily Devotional & Bible Study

Sometimes depression, anxiety, and even thoughts of suicide can make darkness feel like our closest companion. Today we study Psalm 88, where the writer is that honest with God, and we learn to lean on what we know is true instead of what we feel. There is hope in the God who saves, even in the darkest moments.

"O LORD, the God of my salvation, I have cried out by day and in the night before You." (Psalm 88:1)

Questions this episode answers

Why is Psalm 88 in the Bible?

Psalm 88 is one of the darkest psalms, and it ends without a happy resolution. Its place in Scripture shows that God welcomes honest prayers from people in deep pain. Even in despair, the psalmist still calls Him the God of my salvation.

Is it a sin for a Christian to feel depressed?

No. Many faithful people in the Bible, like the writer of Psalm 88, Elijah, and Jeremiah, went through deep despair. Feelings of darkness are not a sign that God has left you. Keep bringing them to Him and to people who can help.

Where can I turn if I am having thoughts of suicide?

Please reach out right away to someone you trust, a pastor, a counselor, or a doctor. In the United States you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline any time. God often brings His comfort through the people He places around us.

Links

If your soul is weary and you need a gentle place to rest with God, our contemplative Bible Study Live retreat in Maui offers quiet time in Scripture and prayer with a small group of women.

Bible Study Live is a small-group Bible study trip with Rachael Groll. Study Scripture where it happened in Rome, or slow down for a contemplative Bible study retreat in Maui. Dates and details at BibleStudyLive.org

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