How does one move forward through sadness and grief.

This question has come up quite often lately, and more often than it used to. These times seem to be breeding this instability that makes people unsure of how to focus, be guided by God, or even reason through some things. We have become a nation of people completely unfocused on our own beliefs.

There is an answer of course. It is God. And I could end the conversation right there. But of course, as human beings, we need some things explained. Wouldn’t it be nice just to say it and it be done. (but again, that’s not the human way)

Jesus said in John 14:6 NIV Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

So, if we were to just go to Him, we would find the way, (a path through our struggles), we would find the truth, (enlightenment and plain facts), and we would find “the life”. Not a life, not a life we are currently enduring. But the life that only He can give us is in relationship with Him.

It’s not rocket surgery. I was reading “My Utmost for His Highest” by Oswald Chambers today, and it states,

“…We do not grow into a spiritual relationship step by step— we either have a relationship or we do not. God does not continue to cleanse us more and more from sin— “But if we walk in the light,” we are cleansed “from all sin” (1 John 1:7). It is a matter of obedience, and once we obey, the relationship is instantly perfected. But if we turn away from obedience for even one second, darkness and death are immediately at work again.

All of God’s revealed truths are sealed until they are opened to us through obedience. You will never open them through philosophy or thinking. But once you obey, a flash of light comes immediately. Let God’s truth work into you by immersing yourself in it, not by worrying into it…”

The beauty of this is that it is that simple. We can achieve a walk with God, relationship with God, a cleansing from sin, and an understanding of our purpose if we obey Him.

And what defeats depression, anxiety, sadness more than knowing what your purpose is?

Nothing. That is why God makes it so clear what our purpose is:

Worship God and live your life as an offering to Him.
Share the Gospel with those around you.
Love others the same way God loves you so they can also have a restored relationship with Him.
Do everything for the glory of God.

To be clear, this is not to minimize or take lightly any struggle that anyone is having with depression, grief, anxiety, or any type of mental health illness. We recognize that these are illnesses, and need care, counsel, and attention. The church has far too long looked upon these and placed them into a bin to be sorted later.

That should not be the reaction of the church. We need to address these concerns, and help with mercy and grace, just like Jesus did. To love and understand, and to guide towards the truth of relationship with Christ.

If you or someone you know is struggling right now with a crisis, a mental health illness, and depression – please reach out. Call your church, call our church, call a mental health professional and share. There is no shame in getting help. In fact, there is hope and a light at the end of the tunnel! Working together with a relationship with Jesus and talking to a mental health professional is a wonderful way to find balance.

Isn’t it great to know that God made it so simple for us to find Him? Jesus said:

John 14:27 NIV “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

Peace,

PTV