Baxter_Melancholy.indb

Originally published in 1682 entitled The Cure of Melancholy and Overmuch Sorrow, by Faith. Baxter carefully distinguishes between the different categories of sadness and depression and outlines their spiritual, environmental and physical causes. Clear sympathy with the sufferer is tempered by a firm directness in addressing wrong, inappropriate and harmful thinking. The place of faith in the believer’s response to feelings of melancholy is carefully drawn out – redirecting the focus to the greatness and benevolence of God, the compassion of the Saviour, and the truthfulness of the Word of God. The necessity of taking practical action with the help of others is also covered. Baxter is keenly aware of the part that illness plays in melancholy. His advice regarding medical help, though at times perceptive, is outdated now and has been omitted from this edition of the book, in which the language has also been carefully updated. Vital reading for pastors from a true shepherd of souls.