Dr. Floyd Godfrey

Life’s challenges can be overwhelming, especially when we face deep personal pain or struggle with mental health issues. During these times, it is not uncommon for confusion to arise, making it harder to trust in God’s plan and even leading to a crisis of faith. Yet, the Bible reminds us that in our most difficult moments, God is near. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, or feelings of isolation, can cloud our minds. These struggles may create confusion about God’s goodness or lead us to doubt His presence in our lives. When mental health issues surface, they can bring with them a whirlwind of emotions—fear, frustration, or even anger. This emotional storm can sometimes cause a person to feel distant from God, unsure if He hears their cries or understands their pain. It’s easy to ask, "Why me, Lord?" or "Where are You in this?"

The reality is that mental health struggles are not a sign of weak faith. They are part of the human experience, and many great figures in the Bible faced similar challenges. Consider Elijah, who after a major victory over the prophets of Baal, fled in fear and despaired for his life (1 Kings 19). Even in his exhaustion and despair, God met him with comfort and guidance. It’s a powerful reminder that no matter how lost we feel, God does not abandon us in our struggles.

The Role of Support
During times of emotional or mental struggle, the importance of leaning on others cannot be overstated. God has placed people in our lives to provide comfort, wisdom, and support. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 speaks to the value of community: "Two are better than one... If either of them falls down, one can help the other up."

Pastors, friends, and family members can be a source of strength when our own faith feels weak. When you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to ask for prayer or share your challenges with a trusted believer. The power of shared burdens is profound. James 5:16 reminds us to "confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed." It is in these moments that the body of Christ can truly act as a lifeline, pointing us back to God’s promises and offering comfort through prayer and presence.

The Power of Prayer
Prayer is another essential tool for holding onto faith during mental health struggles. Even when it feels like your prayers aren’t being heard, continue to reach out to God. Romans 8:26 offers encouragement, stating, "the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans." Even when we feel like we cannot pray, God’s Spirit is still interceding for us.

Persistent prayer, even when we don’t have the words, opens the door for God’s peace to enter our hearts. Philippians 4:6-7 tells us to bring everything to God in prayer, and in return, "the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This peace is not dependent on our emotions but is a gift from God to sustain us through the most challenging times.

Addressing Mental Health without Losing Faith
It is important to remember that addressing mental health challenges does not mean losing faith in God. Seeking professional help, including Christian counseling or therapy, can be an act of faith. It acknowledges that God has given us resources—through medical professionals, support groups, and therapies—that can help us heal.

Holding onto faith during mental health challenges requires patience, persistence, and a support system grounded in Christ. It is okay to feel doubt, confusion, or even anger during times of struggle. But know that your faith is not lost. Just as the disciples cried out to Jesus during the storm, and He calmed the seas (Mark 4:39), He can bring peace to your heart amid life’s storms.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, seek support. Know that God walks with you in your pain and confusion, and with the help of community and prayer, you can endure and grow.

Floyd Godfrey, PhD is a Board Certified Christian Counselor and has facilitated groups within different churches and denominations over the past 30 years. He worked as a licensed counselor for 23 years and provided supervision and training for other counselors as they worked toward independent licensure. You can read more about Floyd Godfrey, PhD at www.FloydGodfrey.com.