Episode 18 | A Redeeming View Of Mental Health

We are joined today by Sam, a clinical mental health counselor and member of Fellowship Denver, to discuss the meeting point of theology and mental health. Our view of God and humanity deeply impacts and shapes our own psychological health. Both religion and culture often tell us, in various ways, that genuinely loving presence - God’s or other’s - will likely be withheld from us if we are not deserving.

To the contrary, a redemptive view of mental health states that nothing we can do or be or become, aside from the intervention of Jesus, will render us worthy. God simply wishes to be invited into our struggles, whatever they are. When relationship with God is restored and he is present in our lives, the process of transformed affection and desire begins. We can begin to be transformed into people who more fully reflect the image of God in which we were made. However, Scripture provides no promise that the restoration of relationship will result in full deliverance from difficulty or healing from mental or physical health struggles.

Sam’s advice to those walking with a friend or loved one through mental health struggles is remain present in the struggle, know that you are not able to be that person’s savior, and know your limits.