Book Review: Spurgeon's Sorrows by Zack Eswine

Depression is an issue that is not addressed in the church. Some Christians think they should not be depressed because of the joy they have in Jesus. That way of thinking has even caused some to think that you are depressed is because you have sinned. So they promote some charismatic appeal to pray away the spirit of depression.

Many in the church look at their leaders and have no clue if any of them go through some form of depression. It could be said about leaders in the past such as Charles Spurgeon which is the case that Zack Eswine writes about in his latest book, Spurgeon Sorrows. One of the things that is addressed in the book is you are not in sin because you are depressed. In fact, one thing the book stresses is that Christ saves us and not the absence of depression. Depression can be the result of some sins but not all sins just as the Bible says, "there is sin that does not lead to death" (1 John 5:17).

Eswine examines Spurgeon's own battle with depression which should be a comfort to us. If a "spiritual giant" such as Spurgeon has battled depression, then for those going through it, you are in good company. What I love about this book is that is written with grace and comfort. Those struggling with depression should not feel they have leprosy which many churches unfortunately have done as with other struggles Christians go through.

This book is a must for pastors and church leaders to read to equip them in helping someone overcome depression. I also recommend it to anyone going through depression knowing there is grace and hope through Jesus.

Thanks Christian Focus for letting me review this book.