Several times I’ve written about finding verses to memorize to battle depression. I find these verses to be particularly helpful when talking about how we battle depression. You can read more on my views on depression and what that feels like here. In Ephesians 6:10-18 Paul talks about the armor of God.
The sword of Spirit is the Word of God. We cut through depression with this sword. We battle her and are victorious when we memorize verses like these to battle depression. These verses can be used to battle a myriad of other mental disorders as well; OCD, Dissociative disorders, anxiety. When we arm ourselves with the power of the Sword of the Spirit it becomes just a little easier to make it through the day.
How to Memorize Scripture:
- Hand-Write the Verse
Grab an Index card and write the verse out by hand. The physical work of writing out the verse will help your mind hold on to it.
- Read it Many times Over Several Days
Carry your index card with you and read it any chance you get. In the bathroom, while waiting in line at the grocery store, while sitting on the train. Just whenever you have a free moment.
- Say it out loud
Hearing the verse will help an auditory learner even if it is your own voice.
- Write out the first letter of each word.
This will prompt your brain without giving you the full verse. This is what I have found the most helpful. For example, Psalm 119:105 says : Your word is a lamp for my feet
and a light on my path.
So on an Index card you would write it this way:
P 119:105
Y W I A L F M F A A L O M P
The letters remind you of the word without giving you the word. This mnemonic device has been the most helpful way for me, personally.
Verses to Memorize to Battle Depression
Psalm 46 1-3
God is our refuge and strength,
a helper who is always found
in times of trouble.
Therefore we will not be afraid,
though the earth trembles
and the mountains topple
into the depths of the seas,
though its water roars and foams
and the mountains quake with its turmoil
Psalm 23:4
Even when I go through the darkest valley,
I fear no danger,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff—they comfort me.
Psalm 117:2
For his faithful love to us is great;
the Lord’s faithfulness endures forever.
Hallelujah!
Psalm 42:11
Why, my soul, are you so dejected?
Why are you in such turmoil?
Put your hope in God, for I will still praise him,
my Savior and my God.
Romans 8:35
Who can separate us from the love of Christ? Can affliction or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?
Psalm 119:105
Your word is a lamp for my feet
and a light on my path.
Acts 17:27
He did this so that they might seek God, and perhaps they might reach out and find him, though he is not far from each one of us.
Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not rely on your own understanding;
Psalm 103:2
My soul, bless the Lord,
and do not forget all his benefits.
