Mental health is the emotional, psychological and social of wellbeing of each one of us .Being a Christian is a journey of discovery,self reflection and a journey that is both filled with love and pain.And all I can say is that it’s a beautiful journey.
Whenever I hear the word mental health as a Christian,the first thing that comes to my mind is the different Biblical characters that endured it through it all for salvation.Maybe back in those days there wasn’t a word to describe whatever they were going through but through their tremendous journey,a new world was created for us and we now call it today Mental health.
One of the best examples to give is Jesus’s sufferings and all the events that occured.Jesus’ suffering, as described in the Bible, reflects many aspects of human mental health struggles, such as distress, loneliness, anxiety, and even despair. His experiences provide insight into emotional pain and how faith can play a role in coping.
In Luke 22:41 the Bible says that “and being in anguish he prayed in anguish and His sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground “
This describes Jesus extreme stress and emotions.He underwent an extreme condition called hematidosis which comes about due to extreme stress.
Luke 22:48 describes Jesus feeling betrayal after Judas had betrayed him with a kiss someone who was close and dear to Him.Jesus despite being the son of God,was able to relate to human emotions and distress.
We often feel overwhelmed as Christians sometimes due to the occurrences we face.We often get betrayed by people close to us, friendships end, overwhelming life apart from our Christian life and ministry.
Jesus faced rejection by His own people in Nazareth and that was linked to loneliness and a sense of social anxiety.(John 1:11).
He came to that which was his own but his own did not receive him
There are days that we may feel rejected,alone and abandoned as Christian.Sometimes people or even our friends may not accept us because of our faith.
There has been many instances that Jesus had to seek solitude.Not because he was bored or didn’t want company but because he needs to process and understand his emotions.
In Mark 1:31 the Bible describes ,” early in the morning Jesus got up and left the house and went to a place of solitary to pray “
Jesus often retreated to places alone to part and reflect.This demonstrates healthy coping mechanisms when facing heavy emotions and a time to think and Pray to God.
As Christians, we must acknowledge that mental health is real and that faith does not exempt us from emotional struggles. However, through Christ, we have a source of hope, healing, and guidance. Just as Jesus endured suffering yet remained faithful, we too can navigate our challenges with God’s help. Seeking support, talking to trusted friends, and taking care of ourselves spiritually and emotionally are all part of maintaining good mental health.
Remember, even in moments of distress, God is with us. And just as Jesus found strength in prayer, so can we. Mental health matters, and so do you.
WRITTEN BY NJOKI WENDY
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