Walking Alongside Friends who Struggle/Spotlight on a New Blogger

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Mental health issues can be misunderstood by some who follow Jesus especially if they do not struggle with them. However, we are called to bear one another’s burdens in Galatians 6:

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ”

Throwing out a quick cliche or a bible verse and expecting that to fix the problem can actually do more harm than good. Coming along side as a friend is most helpful, but that requires understanding and patience on our part.

I loved Hannah’s story–Vulnerability– in coping with social anxiety. Her blog is Grace to be Imperfect at gracetobeimperfect.com. Through sharing her story, she sheds light on what it is like for people with Social Anxiety. She is a new blogger and I highly recommend reading her post.

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A listening ear, a helpful hand, a prayer partner, and trusted friend are what can help a person who is struggling.

I have found that for my refugee friends who have experienced trauma listening to them is a gift to them. I can’t take away the trauma they have experienced. I wish I could.But by listening to them and helping them as they start their new lives here, they find they have a friend they can trust.

Because we read about miracles in the bible that happened suddenly, we can make the mistake of thinking God always works that way. Yes, God does still work miracles. But he also works through us to comfort others. Paul shared about it in 2 Corinthians 1:

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God”

We can be of comfort for those who struggle with issues like anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress by being a friend who walks alongside them as they seek help.

Please check out Hannah’s blog. Thank you for reading. God Bless

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