1:1Six

Faith in Jesus Christ is the path to Salvation, the way to God. No one gets to the Father except through Jesus, He proclaims this in the gospel (John 14:6). One synonym of salvation is lifeline. When one looks at the criteria for depression and anxiety it often includes hopelessness, helplessness, isolation, worry, and fear. Essentially all of which could lead someone to go reaching for a lifeline; clinging to something to escape discomfort or trials or turmoil. He shares with us that trials and tribulations will exist, and yet He also reminds us that to overcome those we are to cling to Him, come to Him, turn to Him, and put our faith in Him.

As Paul writes to the Romans, he shares with them that he does not have any shame in calling himself a Christian, in claiming God. "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes" --Romans 1:16.

Depression and anxiety may lead one to feel shame. It is common to feel this way as mental health is still a somewhat taboo topic. Speaking up about ones feelings may be difficult. Sharing about one's experiences may even add to the symptoms. Romans 1:16 reminds us though that the gospel is power and the route to salvation. If we can overcome the world through accepting the One who created it, can we not also overcome the trials that exist? Especially the challenges that arise from depression and anxiety.

The gospel shares with us that those who believe in Him will experience an everlasting life. An eternal life through Him, in Him, and with Him. The faith to believe in Him may bring the feelings of shame to a sudden halt. Imagine, the One who created it all, created you--created me, and He will offer eternal life based on your belief and acceptance of Him. John 3:16 reminds us of this in that "whoever believes in me will be saved." There is no criteria on having your depression and anxiety "fixed" He calls you as you are, to come as you are, and be with Him as you are. Repeat after me: He is for me.

Paul writes in Romans about how God is the lifeline that we are looking for. He is the lifeline that we need. Throughout the bible, we read about a God that desires a relationship with us and seeks to be closer to us. While experiences of depression and anxiety may attempt to keep us away from this relationship; the lifeline that God is, is never far from our reach.

This extends beyond just the individual sharing about their experiences, but also our willingness to hear about these experience--their feelings, their experiences, their thoughts. Being that ear for someone can be a very touching moment, for both the speaker and the listener. The change that can occur when someone shares about their experiences, changes them to create strength, but it also changes the listener to be able to gain understanding. Romans 1:16 is Paul saying to others who were willing to listen, that Jesus is Lord. Paul was willing to say this despite the criticism that he may receive. As for mental health, at times the listener is quick to share a fix or their opinions despite truly listening to the one sharing. Being the "crowd" for an individual who is opening up is one step to building a community of support.

Scripture:

John 14:6

Romans 1:16

John 3:16

Questions:

What holds you back from sharing things with others? Can you do anything about it?

What does being unashamed of the gospel mean for your growth?

What lifeline do you need?

How have you been a lifeline to others?

This does not change the importance of boundaries, and protecting yourself from experiences that are not for you. How does Paul maintain boundaries with others through his voice of sharing the gospel and not being ashamed to share his experiences?

Prayer:

Lord, I pray that others who experience depression and anxiety can feel your love and acceptance. I pray that your love may outweigh the shame and discomfort that mental health may seem at times because of the perspective of others. Lord, I know that people who experience depression and anxiety are strong. I know that they have a voice and I pray that they may find this voice in you. To share with others their experiences for their growth, and for the growth of others. Lord, I know that others may be resistant, and I pray that as your will leads them to sharing that their resistance is eased with the love that you have for them. I know that I have found strength in you, strength to overcome the trials that the world has set before us, and Lord I pray that others will also find strength in you. In your son's name. Amen.