Depression: Finding Christ in the Darkness, by Ed Welch, P&R, 2024, 85 pages, $9.99, paper.

Edward T. Welch has previously written on depression in Depression: A Stubborn Darkness: Light for the Path (New Growth, 2004) and in Depression: Looking Up from the Stubborn Darkness (New Growth, 2011), which is a slightly revised edition of the first book. Now he has written an entry for the P&R series 31-Day Devotionals for Life. “Darkness” is a consistent way of describing depression in all three books. The first two titles highlight the stubbornness of depression, which the title of the third book omits, but which the content of the book certainly recognizes. The title of the second book hints at the notion that depression impacts our perspective and our perception, and that what we see matters (the gospel-centered application and counsel which is the point driven home in all three books), while the title of the third book stresses that the object of travelling the path or looking up is to find Christ, who is the light in the darkness. The book under review is less detailed, but more pointed and obviously structured and written for devotional use.

In an introductory essay, series editor Deepak Reju writes, “Often, as you read these devotionals, you’ll see the word you because Ed speaks directly to you, the reader” (“How to Nourish Your Soul,” 7). Following the introduction are a welcome (9–10), thirty-one days of devotionals (11–80), a conclusion (81–82), notes (83–84), and resources (85). Days are grouped into sections or subtopics (each subtopic has an introductory page). The sections are Days 1–2, “Darkness Intrudes” (11–16); Days 3–19, “Spiritual Realities” (17-52); Days 20–27, “Accomplices” (53–70); and Days 28–31, “Hope” (71–80).

Each two-page day begins with a brief passage of Scripture (1–4 verses); continues with applicatory comments on the passage; follows with one or two questions or suggestions for further reflection; and ends with an action item.

Action items are frequently calls to pray about something concrete and specific: for example, referring to the day’s reading, “Pray about what you heard. Bring your questions to God” (14). They are sometimes suggestions to read passages of Scripture: for example, “Read a psalm that contains why questions, such as Psalms 10, 22, 44, 88.” Notice that it turns in a hopeful direction. Then “speak your own version of the psalm to Jesus” (50). Often, they are calls to engage with someone who might help: for example, “Ask for help with your plan. Include your reasons for living. Write it down” (20).

The devotionals are addressed to the depressed reader, but they are about Christ, centered on Christ. The book is not so much about depression as it is about Jesus. It is the gospel addressed to depressed people.

Major theological points are put in profoundly accessible language without forsaking precision. The language is economical, but not sparse or inadequate for the task. It is efficient and effective.

The book has a conversational tone, inviting the reader to dialog with God—reading and meditating on Scripture and praying—while opening the heart’s thoughts to the Lord who hears and cares. Helpful, thought-provoking questions are frequently addressed to the reader.

Welch describes his depressed reader’s thoughts. If the reader is not depressed, they hear the thoughts of depression and listen to Welch knowledgeably and sympathetically give counsel to a deeply depressed person.

Welch recognizes that depression is hard and not subject to easy fixes.  And it makes everything difficult. There is no presumption that his reader will be able (or want) to do what is good for him or her. Baby steps. For example, he counsels, “Take a small step. Pray, ‘Help, Jesus,’ or, if you can, ‘Help, my Jesus’” (22) and, “Depression is a time to speak.  Any words, however, will not come easily” (23).

Welch does not underestimate the difficulty of dealing with depression. He does not overestimate the reliability of people who might want to help. But he asserts as a sure and certain hope the power and faithful truthfulness of Scripture, the enabling power and faithfulness of the Holy Spirit, and the power, faithfulness, and loving goodness of Jesus, who “comes to serve you,” “enters into your suffering and darkness,” and “stands against death, sin, and Satan so that they no longer have power over you” (29–30).

Depression is stubborn. Really, only God can lift it. But what does God use to do so? He uses ordinary means: his Word and sacraments, prayer, and fellowship, which means other people. Welch sets God’s Word before the reader and applies it with wisdom gained in long experience, directing the reader in prayer, encouraging the reader to fellowship, and always pointing the reader to Christ.

This little book is a real help to the depressed person and a great resource for those who minister to them. I highly recommend it!

John W. Mallin, a minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, is an independent counselor in south-central Pennsylvania. Ordained Servant Online, June, 2025.