“You just need to pray harder.” “Stop feeling sorry for yourself.” “Look on the bright side!” Have you heard these kinds of statements before? However well-intentioned, such statements usually hurt more than they help.
Churches haven’t always done a great job when it comes to mental health. At their best, churches offer a safe place for people to share their struggles and receive affirmation, love, and care. But far too often, churches reinforce the stigma our society has placed around issues of mental health.
Mental health struggles aren’t a sign of weakness or a moral failing. They’re simply part of being human. God embraces us in all our messy humanity and offers us compassion, understanding, and hope.
Mental Health Resources
Local Mental Health Support
If you are struggling, one of the best things you can do is seek professional help. Hot Springs is blessed with many licensed, experienced counselors who can assist you on your mental health journey.
***If you are having thoughts of suicide, please reach out to the 24hr Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Just dial 988, and someone will be ready to talk with you.
Scriptures for Your Mental Health Journey
(If you don’t have a Bible handy, you can copy and paste these references into your browser search engine)
Psalm 23
Psalm 34:18
Psalm 147:3
Matthew 6:25-34
Matthew 11:28-30
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
1 Peter 5:7
Revelation 21:4
Sermon Videos
In 2024, we hosted a sermon series on spirituality and mental health. Unfortunately, technology issues prevented us from capturing all of these messages. However, the four we did manage to record are linked here. We pray you’ll find them helpful.