Feeling disappointed, uncertain, and like no one cares for you is a difficult thing to bear especially as a Christian. You may be familiar with this feeling, hearing multiple times that God is omnipresent, never forsaking his own. Even though all of this is true, your feelings are still valid, and for those reading who want to help their brother or sister in Christ navigate this, here's how…
Supporting people who feel abandoned by God is being a constant reminder to them that they do not have to deal with these emotions alone, that there is a place for them in the body of Christ, and that leaders, friends, family, pastors, and ministers will stand by them when times are tough. Support in the church should allow others to express their feelings of neglect without their faith or commitment to God being questioned. Ultimately, lead them to the truth about how they are truly adopted in Christ rather than abandoned!
Some ways that those in the church can do this is by creating spaces for individuals to open up such as one-to-one sessions or group forums that deal with mental health. Having these strategies in place as well as the right people at the forefront may invite those who are struggling to be more vulnerable and show them that the church is committed to journeying with them for the long term and not just once this season has passed. The church can promote the role of faith in mental health through prayer, impartation, and deeper study of the word, however, it may take more than a prayer call or meeting to get to the heart of why the person you are supporting feels abandoned.
Taking the time to understand a person's reasons for feeling this way allows you... the person who is supporting them to identify any deeper issues at hand. This is where external resources may work in tandem with the church. For example, trusted therapists/local support networks that can assist on a daily basis. This ensures that the church cares holistically, rather than just spiritually.
Although the person you're encouraging may feel abandoned by God, urge them to express their feelings to Him. God desires to hear about the good, the bad, and everything in between. Perhaps when the individual expresses their pain to God, he will come to them as a comforter. A healing hand that they need. With that being said, the person you are supporting may find it difficult to do this, so continue to pray for them behind the scenes, asking God to begin a work in their hearts and be available for any spiritual guidance they may require.
The sense of community is the key to overcoming obstacles. Simply listening may lift the burden of abandonment. That is why it is critical to ask questions, understand the individual, affirm them and spend more time with them. Through doing this you will open their eyes to the numerous reasons why they are wanted, chosen, and not an afterthought of God. Be a constant reminder to them that they have been adopted as sons/daughters through Christ Jesus, and that you are also there for them too.
Comments