Winter of the Soul II: Why Faithfulness Doesn’t Prevent Depression

This week on The Whole Counsel, Dr. John Snyder continues a thoughtful discussion on seasonal depression—whether that season is influenced by winter’s effect on our mood and mental state, or by a particularly difficult chapter of life. In the previous episode, Dr. Snyder introduced this theme through a candid letter from John Newton. In this episode, he turns to pastoral wisdom from Charles Spurgeon, drawing from a series of lectures recently published in a new book from Crossway, “Encouragement for the Depressed.”

Though Spurgeon originally delivered these lectures to vocational ministers, the gospel-shaped truths he presents are deeply relevant for every Christian. Spurgeon addresses a common misunderstanding in the church: faithful service to God should shield believers from fear, doubt, or sadness. Scripture and experience show otherwise. God may allow seasons of depression and weariness not as a sign of failure, but as a means of deepening compassion, sympathy, and patience.

Spurgeon also speaks with unusual honesty about the isolating nature of faithful ministry. Pastors are often entrusted with heavy burdens that must be carried quietly and cannot be shared freely. While congregations may express love and appreciation, they cannot fully know the weight their pastors bear. This calling is a blessing, but it is also costly. For that reason, pray regularly for your pastors and to offer thoughtful encouragement whenever possible.

Show Notes:
Encouragement for the Depressed by Charles Spurgeon (Forward by Randy Alcorn)
https://www.crossway.org/books/encour...

Check out Jeremy Walker’s podcast on Charles Spurgeon:
www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts

00:00 Introduction
02:10 Seasonal Struggles in the Christian Life
05:30 Spiritual Dullness Amid Gospel Light
09:00 John Newton’s “January Within and Without”
13:00 When Truth Feels Cold
16:45 Weariness, Busyness, and Distraction
20:30 Waiting Upon the Lord
24:30 A Faithful Man’s Prayer for Help
27:30 Closing Reflections

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