The Void in Thunderbolts is More Real Than You Think. In this week’s Geek Devotions, Celeste dives into a surprising moment from Marvel’s Thunderbolts that touches on mental health, depression, and the power of presence. What does a superpowered fight against an invisible enemy say about real-life struggles? And how can we, as friends or believers, respond when someone feels like they’re losing to the darkness? Join us as we explore this emotional scene and how it connects to scriptures like Psalm 69.
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Marvel’s Thunderbolts delivers the kind of fast-paced action and humor fans expect, but one moment in particular hits on something deeper: the reality of depression.
There’s a character named Bob battling a terrifying presence, The Void. It’s not just a threat from the outside; it’s a representation of his inner darkness, a voice in his head saying things like:
“You’re not good enough.”
“You’re all alone.”
“They’re not really your friends.”
These are the thoughts that so many people silently struggle with daily. Bob tries to fight it, but physically attacking it is the only way he knows how. But from the outside, the rest of the Thunderbolts can see what he can’t: he’s losing the battle.
Then something beautiful happens. His friends rush in, not to punch the darkness with him, but to hug him. To be there. And at that moment, things began to change.
It’s a powerful picture of how we, as people of faith, are called to respond, not always with answers, but with presence.
That feeling Bob experiences, drowning in despair, is not new. King David wrote about it centuries ago. In Psalm 69:14-18 (ESV), he cries out:
Deliver me from sinking in the mire; let me be delivered from my enemies and from the deep waters. Let not the flood sweep over me, or the deep swallow me up, or the pit close its mouth over me. Answer me, O Lord, for your steadfast love is good; according to your abundant mercy, turn to me. Hide not your face from your servant, for I am in distress; make haste to answer me. Draw near to my soul, redeem me; ransom me because of my enemies!
David didn’t hold back; he admitted he was overwhelmed, buried in sorrow, and desperately needed help. That’s something we all need to be reminded of: it’s okay to admit we’re not okay. It’s okay to call out to God and ask for rescue.
Just like Bob needed his team, sometimes we need others to simply be near. And sometimes we are called to be present for someone else. We may not have the perfect words or solutions, but we can choose to show up, and that might be exactly what someone needs to keep going.
Reflection
Are you feeling like David, like you’re sinking, overwhelmed by sadness or anxiety? Have you been silently fighting “the void” all on your own?
Are you surrounded by someone who might be battling The Void quietly?
Whichever side you’re on, remember that you’re not alone. God’s mercy is abundant, and His love is steadfast. And through His people—through you and me—He brings comfort and presence.
Challenge
This week:
If you’re facing your own Void, take a bold step and reach out to someone you trust. Let them walk with you.
If you notice someone struggling, don’t wait. A simple act of kindness, a text, a call, a moment of silence beside them, can be life-changing.
Also, take time to meditate on Psalm 69. Let David’s words guide your prayers, honesty, and hope.
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