A game of cards. (5 September 2024)
“There is no grosser or greater misrepresentation of the Christian message than that which depicts it as offering a life of ease with no battle and struggle at all… sooner or later every believer discovers that the Christian life is a battleground, not a playground.” (Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones. The Christian Warfare. p20)
Christianity offers a unique perspective on mental health. Comfort, hope and healing for all. A secure foundation on which to build and rebuild life. Without love, religion and tradition can also be used mindlessly to falsely criticise the faithlessness of those in need of support.
Christian resource in relation to mental health includes…
The Love of God:
God loves and cares deeply for all. This awareness can provide comfort and reassurance during difficult times. Christians do have them. But all can know peace in His presence.
Powerful Prayer:
Prayer is a way to mindfully connect with God and seek His; guidance, strength, forgivness, help and healing. Honesty is better than hype.
“The world is full of so-called prayer warriors who are prayer-ignorant. They’re full of formulas and programs and advice, peddling techniques for getting what you want from God. Don’t fall for that nonsense. This is your Father you are dealing with, and he knows better than you what you need. With a God like this loving you, you can pray very simply.” (Matthew 6:7-9 MSG)
Mindful Prayer:
djchannon.me.uk/mindfulness
Family and Community:
The Christian community should offer support and encouragement. We all belong to a family, with God as our Father.
Hope and Purpose:
Eternal life and a future with God offers hope and a timeless renewed purpose for all.
Battles of the Mind.
Culture, context and complex cognitive chaos can disrupt Christian mindfulness. Apostle Paul knew about this.
“We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ.” (2 Corinthians 20:5 MSG)
“People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care.” (Theodore Roosevelt)
I become more Aware, Compassionate and Empathetic (ACE) for others, when giving time and using eyes and ears, more than mouth.
Do we want to be ACE of hearts?
Too often we try to be, crowd-pleasing Jokers.