2019 Theme Lights in a Dark World Philippians 2:15

Our Mental Health Examples in every area

Mental health a big concern today We are living in stressful times with pressures coming from every side As Christians, we are reminded how increasingly ungodly the world is becoming Struggles with our physical well being often affect our mental health HOW should we be thinking? Our Mental Health

Our mind is associated with our heart The Bible and our mind Our mind is associated with our heart The heart and mind of a Christian – is what we are inside – our soul, personality, will. The seat of our emotions, thoughts, understanding and attitudes It is what makes you – you! Our Mental Health

Our minds govern our conduct Proverbs 4:23, keep your heart The Bible and our mind Our minds govern our conduct Proverbs 4:23, keep your heart Matthew 22:37, Love God with all your heart. Romans 8:5-6 Romans 10:10 Romans 12:2 Our Mental Health

Our minds govern our conduct The Bible and our mind Our minds govern our conduct Colossians 3:2, set your mind on things above Hebrews 8:10, I will put My laws in their mind and hearts Be like minded – 1 Peter 3:8, Philippians 1:27, 2:2-3, 4:2, etc. Our Mental Health

Mental struggles are real We all struggle with our minds from time to time – striving to get our thinking where it ought to be It might be minor or temporary But for many, it is a serious challenge affecting the very core of who we are 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 Our Mental Health

Mental struggles are real I believe some struggle with genuine mental issues, some of which might require professional help In such, seek a care provider who believes in God! You need someone who will not excuse sin! Our Mental Health

Mental struggles are real Mental health is a big business today – with larges sums on professionals, drugs and treatments Far too many at the FIRST sign of struggles seek someone hoping for a cure or help Some things to consider: Our Mental Health

Mental struggles are real Some things to consider In many instances (maybe more than we care to admit), a good look at the Bible with a determination to obey can help identify the cause of our angst Are we bringing on our problems with sinful behaviors and attitudes? Our Mental Health

Mental struggles are real For example: Someone is engaged in sinful behavior and his conscience is bothering him (it’s working) – mental anguish (guilt, despising oneself, defeated attitude, depression, etc.) Rather than repenting, he seeks out a “professional” for therapy The result of treatment - he does not feel guilty anymore. BUT, in God’s eyes, the sin is still there!

How can our mental health affect our influence? It affects how we view ourselves That can affect how we view others Reflected in our attitudes and moods – which affect others It can rob us of confidence to reach others Do we even realize this? Our Mental Health

Maintaining healthy minds Begins with examination – Galatians 6:3-5, 1 Corinthians 11:28 Psalm 26:2 Most challenges begin with examination – we need to know where we are! Our Mental Health

Maintaining healthy minds Deal with the causes If some area is not right, deal with it Repent! 2 Corinthians 7:10-11 Think of areas we have discussed – self-control, contentment, humility, endurance, moderation, etc. Our Mental Health

Maintaining healthy minds Understand that mental struggles are not necessarily sinful Jesus was troubled – Matthew 26:37 Paul – 2 Corinthians 11:28 BUT, they can become sinful! It is about HOW we deal with them Our Mental Health

Maintaining healthy minds What is our mindset? Are we determined to be positive and see the best? Acts 16:25, 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, etc. 1 Peter 1:13, gird up the loins of your mind Our Mental Health

Maintaining healthy minds What are you putting into your mind? Dwelling on the negative? Associating with the negative? Philippians 4:8 – what are you dwelling on? Our Mental Health

Maintaining healthy minds Be anxious for nothing Philippians 4:6-7 – something we need to work on! Let your requests be made known – James 5:13, 1:2-6 Our Mental Health

Maintaining healthy minds Learn to trust God – 1 Peter 5:6-7, Philippians 4:7 Appreciate faith, God’s mercy, grace & His love This is NOT permission to sin 1 John 2:1-2 Our Mental Health

Maintaining healthy minds Live your life one day at a time – Matthew 6:34 Let your brethren help you James 5:13-16, Romans 12:15 Our Mental Health

How is your Mental Health? Examples in every area