Why the church has struggled to address mental illness well and how we can care better.
J. D. PEABODY (Originally posted on CT May 2, 2024)
Nearly five years ago, a high-profile pastor—one who had shared bravely and publicly about his battle with depression—took his own life. In the days after his death, a call circulated widely on social media platforms for clergy with mental health issues to be removed from their posts.
I understand the motivation. The argument was made out of a concern to prevent similar tragedies. But as a pastor who has endured chronic mental torment, the simplistic appeal struck me as an example of the widespread clumsiness within the church when it comes to addressing mental illness. Prominent Christian teachers, most recently including California author and pastor John MacArthur, have denied diagnosable conditions such as OCD and ADHD even exist.
In my own ministry, my struggles with anxiety and OCD have proven to be unexpectedly fertile soil for connecting with people. Opening up about the brokenness in my mind has led to deeper relationships as God took the affliction that initially felt to me like pure deficit and put it to work. His strength, as he tells us, shows up in our weakness (2 Cor. 12:9). (Read more)
Also by Author JD Peabody
Perfectly Suited
Use the practical and biblical tools of the armor of God to free yourself from the shackles of anxiety and fear.
What do you do when your own mind turns on you? Fear, anxiety, and the critical voices in your head can be overwhelming―even if you believe Christ died to free you from those things. Perfectly Suited explores the armor of God through the lens of personal struggle, showing how the ancient metaphor for God’s care is powerful for his embattled children in every generation.
When J. D. Peabody found himself in a mental and emotional breakdown, he reached for the armor of God. In the process, he discovered God’s protection and grace were far greater than he had previously imagined. This book will help you:
- Explore scriptures to yield practical promises and helps that will help you return to God’s peace and joy
- Reflect on your perspectives, viewpoints, and faith to unearth God’s grace in your life
- Release the burdens thrown on by anxiety–the armor of God is not another “Christian duty” to perform, but a truth to help uplift and unload.
- And more!
4 Key Features of Perfectly Suited by J.D. Peabody
- Bible-Based – Be comforted by a solid, biblical look at the armor of God from a compassionate and seasoned pastor and writer.
- Highly Visual – Quickly reference key points with outlines, charts, diagrams, and more!
- Easy-to-Understand – Absorb key principles and practical takeaways easily through clear ideas and explanations.
- Practical – Enjoy reflection questions at the end of each section to start applying these biblical principles to your life immediately.
Paperback, 176 pages, ISBN 978-1496465948.
