Fear Not!

More thoughts about Mental Health Awareness...... and fear.....

As we spend increasing amounts of time intentionally seeking awareness of God's view of our lives and our relationships, we are drawn more deeply into the radical truth of what is going on. This often results in a dramatic discovery of inner realities that appear to be in contrast (or in conflict) with some of the external patterns we have embraced for much of our life. Sometimes years have passed in either ignorance or denial of what is "true" about our character, our passion, our pain or our sin. Then when we begin to spend time daily, surrendering our "selves" to God and remaining in the stillness of God's presence, God begins to claim any aspect that is in need of removal, healing or purification. Thoughts, habits, assumptions, delusions, (the list goes on) are exposed in the light of truth and grace that is literally the "spotlight" provided as we pray. These, in short, are the darker regions of our being...and they may be the places that we have avoided or masked for much of our lives. As they rise to the surface of our awareness, we may, for a time, feel more "ill" than "well".

Fear not, He is with you! There is absolutely nothing that God invites that can overcome His light and love. That doesn't mean that the process of discovery is always pleasant or quick. Just as the unfolding of illness may take years, so may the process of healing and wholeness take years. Certainly there are times when we need medical assistance to facilitate mental/emotional health. However, I have learned that there are many, many instances when we miss the totality of healing when we stop at the observable or measurable aspects of behavior and thought. Very often there is, literally, "soul work" that is going on.

If you experience the tension between how God is inviting you to "be" and how you have always "been", I encourage you to seek a companion (a pastor or spiritual director) with whom you can be in conversation. It may feel like you are approaching the ends of the earth...but in Christ and in your life in Him, there are amazing and wonderful horizons of wellness you have never experienced!

Recommended reading: Any books by Gerald May, one of the founders of the Shalem Institute for Spirital Formation "Will and Spirit", "Care of Mind, Care of Soul", "The Dark Night of the Soul". Any books by Thomas Keating on Centering Prayer-- "Open Mind, Open Heart", "Invitation to Love", "Intimacy With God"