Click here for the podcast version
Inspiration in isolation
I have been thinking a lot this week about the difference our faith can make to a sense of isolation - or even desperation - at times like this. I spoke to someone this week who said that their mental health had been suffering because of isolation. They are not the only one.
Did you notice that it was "World Mental Health Day" this week? For too long the subject of mental health has been a taboo for people of the Christian faith. If there is a sense of shame regarding mental health for non-believers, it might be even stronger for believers. Aren't we meant to have the "mind of Christ"? And if we do, shouldn't that be enough?
What can be forgotten is that the consequences of what happened in Eden affect every part of human life. The emotional, mental, physical and the spiritual.
What can we do to help ourselves and one another? Are you feeling especially isolated right now, or know someone how is? You might find the resources of the website "mind and soul" helpful. Whatever your situation, be assured that God is right there in the midst of the situation with you.
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me;
your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4 NIV11)"Even when the way goes through Death Valley,
I’m not afraid when you walk at my side.
Your trusty shepherd’s crook makes me feel secure.” (Psalm 23:4 MESSAGE)Take some time to pray, ask God for courage, and reach out - to him and a friend or two.
I hope you find some of the resources I have uploaded this week to be useful. In particular, although today's sermon is not about mental health, it is about the difference our faith makes when we remember we are in our situation with God.
