What the Church Gets WRONG
A Final Devotion for Mental Health Awareness Month
Several weeks ago, I attended the Hope Together conference, with other ministry leaders gaining practical tools and resources to better support those walking through difficult times. It affirmed my feelings, and this is not meant to be divisive, but needs to be heard. Since October is designated as Mental Health Awareness Month, I’m taking a strong stand on the church as a whole, not a specific denomination. (Really, this is for anyone who considers themself a Christian.) This devo is a bit longer than normal, but hang in there! (I would love to hear from you, by leaving a comment on my webpage.)
My heart is heavy and saddened for a reader who shared with me how some Christians have responded to her depression and anxiety by telling her it was her lack of faith. This breaks my heart, and I strongly disagree! I've studied the bible for over 30 years, and I don't believe there is any biblical truth to such a claim. Jesus didn’t criticize Mary Magdalene (as recorded in Luke 8 and Mark 16); instead, He treated her with compassion and healed her.
What I’m about to share may fire you up. It needs to be communicated. There is so much stigma that needs to be deconstructed. I have experienced it and also heard wretched stories. The church’s role should be one to shepherd and love its people better, especially those who live with depression, anxiety, or a number of other emotional challenges. Sadly, Church history contains embarrassments, cruelty, and destructive patterns that have turned many people from God. I believe the subject of mental illness will be, if not already, added to that list within the scope of those suffering with mental health. The Church would better shepherd its members by correcting bad teaching about mental illness.
We need to remember something about God: His character is love, mercy, grace, faithfulness, and justice. It is Satan, not God, who has influenced mankind, even within the Church, leading to harm through false teachings, mistreatment, and basic human ignorance about mental health.
Too often, churches give “guidance” regarding mental illness that is flat out not biblical and wrong. When considering the illness and emotional anguish one endures, this “guidance” actually causes more harm, adds to their struggles, and turns people away from the Lord. It’s devastating.
Friend, the following statements should never be used in conversations about mental illness. If you are in a conversation and hear these, please speak up.
“Just pray more.”
“This is a result of sin.”
“You can't serve here.”
“Your faith is not big enough”
“Medication is not an answer.”
“Taking medication contradicts our Church doctrine.”
Better to offer words of hope, encouragement, and love, which may actually change the way someone is feeling and remind them they are valuable to God and others:
“Can I pray with you?” (Galatians 6:2)
“The way you feel is not who I believe you are, not who God says you are.” (Psalm 100:3)
“You have so much good to offer the world around you.” (Galatians 6:10)
“If you feel hopeless, I want you to know I care.” (Ephesians 4:23)
“Treatment is holistic, medical, physical care, and spiritual life, it all matters.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23)
Most churches lack mental health resources, leaving leaders and staff uncertain about how, where, and when to refer families, especially during a crisis. There are great resources for churches, where collaboration with professionals who are committed to help the Church build a culture of care. Hope for The Heart and Hope Made Strong are two of my favorites. Would you take a step today and share this email with a pastor at your church? I would love to hear from you. I believe addressing mental health issues is complex and the best approach is holistic. 1 Thessalonians 5:23 states humans have a spirit, soul and body; all three aspects need care.
Would you pray this with me?
Dear Father,
The topic of mental health is complex, and we desperately need your help. Would you pour out your Holy Spirit over a reader today who may be struggling or has a loved one who is suffering? Give us and sanctify us with a truthful perspective and Your truth. I pray for a spirit of hope, not despair; a spirit of encouragement, not discouragement; and of sound mind, not one of darkness. Thank you for the promise that a day will come when there will be no more tears or suffering and those will be no longer remembered. In the power of Jesus name Amen.” (Joel 2:28-29, John 17:17, Revelation 21:4)
If this devotion has spoken to you, I would love to hear how by leaving a comment below or emailing me tracyarntzen@gmail.com.