Hello, Altered Stories Ministry Family,
The month of May is known as “Mental Health Awareness” month. While this topic is a passing thought for some people, for others, it is an actual battle they fight daily.
I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge those who wrestle with these struggles.
Maybe you have been a believer all your life, but if someone were to peak into your headspace it would look like a war zone with shrapnel flying every direction. To be honest with yourself, many times, you feel like these thoughts are your enemy. Like you, I’ve been in this space and place before and I’ve seen the destruction that this anxiety can bring. For example, recently, one of my family members was taken to the hospital battling major mental health issues.
What is the remedy?
First, this healing process starts with Christ. He is the only One who gives indescribable peace to the battle in your mind. I often find that He brings people into your life, who share a similar struggle that they overcame through the power of Christ.
Second, we are instructed in 2 Corinthians 10:5 to tear down what comes against God’s word by saying, “We are tearing down false arguments and every high-minded thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God. We are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Messiah” (TLV). The word also says in Isaiah 26:3 “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you” (NLT).
Does this mean if we think on God, or fill ourselves with His Word, that suddenly negative thinking will disappear overnight? It depends. Yes, being mindful of God and His Word can help right away, but our negative mindsets and habits take time to transform into Christ likeness.
Below, I suggest a few things you can do and encourage others to do moving forward.
First, surround yourself with people who encouraged you. The word says in Proverbs 27:17, “As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend” (NLT) The more you hang around people who encourage you the better you will feel.
Second, spend time with the Lord each day by taking a few minutes to pray and give your struggles and thoughts over to Him. You may have to give these burdens over to God multiple times a day, as they don’t want to leave easily.
Third, when you lay down to sleep. listen to an audio Bible because while you are resting your spirit is feeding on the Word.
I hope this article has encouraged you. if you know someone who is struggling, feel free to share this article with that person.
God bless,
Teresa
