This is the second of our “Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise for 2024” series. This blog is adapted using AI from the sermon transcript. View the video on our YouTube channel.

Hey folks, I know mental health is a heavy topic. And with good reason – it touches all of our lives in some way. I want you to know you’re not alone in whatever you face.

I am no psychologist, but I understand the struggles having seen them up close with my wife of nearly 28 years. She has battled anxiety and depression for a long time. I’ve seen it nearly take over and I’ve seen God walk faithfully with her through it.

The truth is, faith doesn’t make us immune to life’s blows (Philippians 1:29). Christians face troubles the same as others. Coming to Jesus brings salvation but doesn’t instantly heal all diseases or struggles. Spurgeon said it plain – Christianity won’t shield you from tribulations.

For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him.

Philippians 1:29 NLT

So let’s get real about mental health in the church. By sharing our own anxieties, depressions, and pains openly as David did in the Psalms, we walk together in shared brokenness. Just as worries choked the seed’s growth in Jesus’ parable of the sower (Mark 4:18-19), so too can out-of-control anxiety erode our trust in God’s care.

The seed that fell among the thorns represents others who hear God’s word, ¹⁹ but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things, so no fruit is produced

Mark 4:18-19 NLT

It comforts me that giants of the faith like David and Elijah faced deep anguish too. David felt abandoned by God, crying out “Why have you forgotten me?” (Psalm 42:9) Yet God upheld him. When in despair, Elijah asked God to end his life (1 Kings 19:4). But the Lord sent an angel to nourish and strengthen him for future trials.

“O God my rock,” I cry,
    “Why have you forgotten me?
Why must I wander around in grief,
    oppressed by my enemies?”

Psalm 42:9 NLT

“I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life, for I am no better than my ancestors who have already died.”

1 Kings 19:4 NLT

However bleak your road seems friend, you are not alone. Reach out and speak openly to me, a doctor, a counselor…and most importantly to God. No need to pretty it up either. Pour out your heart as the Psalms show. God can handle all your griefs, rages, and tears. Let His Word and His presence refresh you.

As Christ’s body, the Church must do better in offering care, not shame, around mental health. We’re told “Carry each other’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2). We need to support the suffering without simplistic fixes. And yes, absolutely pray for healing and comfort from the Great Physician.

Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.

Galatians 6:2 NLT

But recall Jesus saying “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Our Savior may allow thorns to remain for a time, as Paul discovered. Yet as we yield to Him, His strength shines brighter against our fragility.

“My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.”

2 Corinthians 12:9

I cannot promise instant or permanent relief friend. But you can find help and hope along this bumpy ride. Stay rooted in God’s Word, speak honestly with safe people, and follow wisdom in caring for mind and body. We’re all in this together. You’re gonna make it because God holds you fast. And I’m here to listen without judgment anytime.

Scripture References:
Philippians 1:29, Mark 4:18-19, Psalm 42:9, 1 Kings 19:4, Galatians 6:2, 2 Corinthians 12:9

Take this a little further using the study material below. If this is something you’d like to see more of, please let me know.

Personal Study

Observations

1. In Matthew 6:25-34, what reasons does Jesus give for why His followers should not worry about their basic needs?
2. How does the passage in Philippians 4:6-7 describe the response one should have towards anxiety?
3. What does the account of Elijah in 1 Kings 19:4-5 reveal about his emotional state, and how does God respond to his needs?

Interpretation

1. Considering Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6, what might be the implications of seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness in the context of managing worry and anxiety?
2. Reflecting on Philippians 4:6-7, what role does thanksgiving play in presenting requests to God, and how might this affect one’s experience of peace?
3. In the story of Elijah, how does God’s provision for his physical needs speak to the care God has for those who are in despair?

Application

1. Identify a specific worry about a basic need you have faced recently. How can you apply Jesus’ teaching from Matthew 6 to this concern?
2. Think of a situation that is causing you anxiety. What is a prayer of petition and thanksgiving you can offer to God regarding this situation?
3. Recall a time when you felt overwhelmed or in despair. What is one way you can remind yourself of God’s provision and care in such moments, as seen in Elijah’s experience?
4. When next faced with anxiety, what is a specific verse from today’s readings that you can meditate on to help redirect your focus to God’s peace?
5. Consider someone in your community who is struggling with mental health. What is one tangible act of support you can offer them this week to demonstrate empathy and love?

Don’t battle alone. We have a family that understands. Innovate Church.