Beauty in the Browns: Walking with Christ in the Darkness of Depression

In this stirring work, journalist Asay (Burning Bush 2.0) offers hope and encouragement to Christians wrestling with depression or helping a loved one navigate it. Drawing from his own experiences as well as his son’s, Asay examines the ways depression can intensify feelings of anxiety, emptiness, insecurity, loneliness, shame, and sadness. Asay acknowledges that the church unintentionally “sometimes shuts down or shuts out some of the very people whom Jesus said were blessed: the poor in spirit, those who mourn.” However, he reassures Christian readers that they can find redemption and purpose despite their depression, and he shares how the practice of prayer and volunteer work have helped him cope with depression. He also considers how he’s come to view depression and suffering as gifts one can learn and grow stronger from: “When depression makes me feel empty, perhaps God can fill me with something better.” He recommends Christians embrace faith when God seems far away, seek out counseling or professional help when necessary, and find joy in family. Any Christian can appreciate Asay’s encouraging examination. (Feb.)