Dearly Beloved Saints,

This is Mental Health Awareness Week. From John’s third epistle-general, we know it is God’s will that we prosper spiritually and be in good health, even as our souls prosper. The soul, as we all know, is the seat of the intellect, the emotions and the will. It is also the battleground where the conflict rages between God’s spiritual ideals, and the destructive desires of the flesh.

Mental health challenges are much more prevalent than most people realise. They range from the mild and merely discomforting, to the totally debilitating. Causes vary from domestic, mental and physical abuse, to childhood trauma, bereavement and loss, disability, and identity and self-worth problems amongst other things.

Individuals, families, care-givers, and indeed the larger society all suffer when mental health issues assail anyone. There are a few steps we can take to ameliorate such situations.

Firstly, take proper care of yourself. You cannot look out or care for others if you are yourself unwell. An intimate personal relationship with Father Lord, a healthy work-life balance, exercise, adequate rest and sleep patterns, are all critical.

Secondly, educate yourself on mental health issues and seek professional help as soon as worrying symptoms show up in you or your loved ones.

Thirdly, remember that you are a child of God. This means that you are primarily a citizen who has been given the keys of His Kingdom. Behind most physical activities and occurrences there is a spiritual force at work. You have the authority of the name above every name, Jesus Christ, to hold demonic powers and activities in check. You also have the power of your effective and fervent prayers which make much power available.

Finally, you have the weapon that conquers all known problems, love. With the empathy and compassion of love, the kindness and meekness of its patience, the indomitability of its hope, the politeness and selflessness of its demeanour, you can help anyone you know, love or encounter to overcome mental health travails. You are called to be your brother’s keeper. So do all within your power to make life better for anyone around you with mental health challenges.

We pray the presence of God into all your lives and endeavour.

Shalom and God bless.

Omawumi and Carol Efueye
(Pastor & Mummy O)