“My son needs help but he is afraid of being stigmatized. His career is taking off and he is being promoted. He is not enjoying his success. He is afraid of being thought of as weak and losing momentum for his career,” the distraught parent said to me recently. Today I have had two conversations with people afraid to ask for help. Long ago a mental health professional told me that one out of every four people you meet has some form of mental illness.

Everyone has been broken. We have hope. Hope is fuel for living. God forgives our sin, breaks its power over us, and gives us a brand new life. When Jesus saved a tormented man in Mark 8 he was restored to a “right mind” or sound mind. Immediately, he began to tell others about the goodness and power of Jesus. It is what Jesus does! He forgives, saves, heals, and gives enduring hope.

“As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work, your loving deeds, and the enduring hope you have because of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 1:3

We all need to know there is someone safe to talk to. Someone that will listen without judging or trying to give you unsolicited advice. Who do you know that you can talk out your troubles, grief, anger, fears, pain, struggles, or hopelessness with? Are you the kind of person that can be trusted to listen confidentially? Can you imagine what it is like to be in the shoes of someone suffering from deep depression?

The Bible says, “Encourage the timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone.” 1 Thessalonians 5:14

She was one of the godliest, kindest, and most authentic women my wife and I have ever known. We loved her. We miss her. Occasionally, I pull up a photo of her. I don’t won’t to forget her beautiful face. She had fought a long and exhausting battle with her mental health. She feared the stigma and rejection if people knew.

One Sunday morning I preached about how God uses our weaknesses and infirmities. She wept throughout the message. I would have never guessed what she had so carefully guarded. Afterwards we prayed together at the altar. She accepted that God had really forgiven her sins in Christ and made her a new woman. Further, God really did dwell within her and was at work in her life. She also accepted it was not a lack of faith to go to a good doctor and take medication.

“This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17, NLT)

“For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.” (Philippians 2:13, NLT)

What this woman accomplished over the next decade was amazing. What really blessed me though, was when her husband told me how God completely changed her and gave her victory night and day.

Just a few suggestions if you are struggling. First don’t be ashamed. I know that is easier said than done. However, you are not alone. Talk with someone you can trust, perhaps a pastor or a mature friend. Feed yourself with the Bible and good books. It’s true, that we are what we read. Be a part of a healthy church family. Next seek professional help. If medication is prescribed for good mental health take it! That is just as wise as taking medicine for good physical health.

If you need help, you are not alone. There is help, hope, and healing. There is a safe place for you at Woodland Church.

Peace!