This is why he kindly addresses our fears with words of comfort, but somehow those same words have been a catalyst to point blame at ourselves or other believers as if we are lesser in our faith because we are enduring a battle of the mind. God knows our minds are weak, and fear will be a part of our human experience. God over and over comforts us, telling us that when we are afraid, we can trust him. Part of the church's struggle with this topic stems from an incomplete understanding of the many verses that address our mental battles with fear and anxiety. The church needs to expand the conversation from us seeking peace not only through our connection to the Bible but also through seeking health in our bodies through practices that promote our physical and mental well-being.
#Daily bible devotional free#
Understanding the physical connections between our bodies and minds helps to free us of the shame and guilt that holds us back from seeking healing through a holistic approach. In addition to these traumas, stresses, and losses, these mental illnesses are also triggered by physical imbalances in my body. Counselors, therapists, and a strong community are key to finding healing. Those are all things that we need the help of others and the Holy Spirit to work through. It is well-documented that our behavior, thoughts, and trauma cause anxiety and depression. If you’ve never struggled with your mental health, it can be hard to understand what it feels like to have your mind and body hijacked by the crushing weights of anxiety, depression, or other debilitating mental illnesses I assure you, as someone that has walked this trying road, there is more to these terrifying experiences than a lack of a proper understanding of God’s Word.Īnxiety and Depression Are Caused by Physical Imbalances Some Christians believe that mental illness is more than an ailment some think it is a spiritual failure.Įmpathy Is Required When Discussing Mental Health It’s clear that we still are lacking in our ability to address mental illness in church with grace and understanding. Yet, just last week I sat in a service where those taking anti-anxiety medications were a group being called out.
In addition to these practical steps, we often rely on the expertise of professionals, and oftentimes, this includes taking medication as a way for us to find that healing.Īll of the actions described above are the same steps that are necessary for a person to find healing or relief from mental illness. Diligently praying that God offers us healing should be a part of our response. We need a community to call on to support us on our journey. We need to make changes in the ways we care for our bodies in order to experience healing. When we are suffering due to an ailment, we need the peace of God to help us to endure our trials. Jesus replied: “’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ - Matthew 22:37
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