This has been a great series and very apropos. One thing I would have liked to hear your thoughts on more in depth is the power our minds have over our physiology. It’s well documented that mental attitude can change body chemistry. The problem, as I see it, is we are so reluctant to ever change our minds, or even attempt to. I think that’s what Rom. 12:1-2 is getting at - the “renewing of your mind” is one of the keys to transformation, and indeed, good mental health. How that happens is a much longer discussion but one that is important I believe.
What we do know is that our society is contributing to the decline of mental health. Loneliness, isolation, judging worth based on success, inequality, unregulated tech, and a lack of social programs contribute to depression, anxiety, and our rise in depression... to name a few. Church and christians are generally silent on these matters, and maybe not willing to look at the evidence of what we need to build in our societal communities for wellbeing. The church should be a voice in these matters, a model, and instead the evangelicals and conservative churches are applauding our capitalistic and individualistic country and want more of it, even cutting out all social programs and embracing the trickle down cruel economic system. The more liberal churches are not heard. Building the Kindgom of Heaven on earth concerns these matters.
Great point. I would like to encourage you that there are still churches that are getting it right. Their focus & resources are well distributed outside of Sunday morning in youth ministry, adult weekday small groups & community, singles ministry, college ministry, community outreach & financing that aren’t solely Christian organizations. Their message & mission is Jesus & only Him. This isn’t a shameless plug, I’m in the Atlanta area & my home church is Northpoint Community Church, lead pastor is Andy Stanley. After years of seeking God in all kinds of twisted ways I found a well rounded, Christ centered community there. They aren’t the only ones I’m just in Atlanta.
I heard you today on Paul's podcast. Very intriguing dialogue. So many similarities. Being from the recovery community I appreciated the ideas. This topic is so wide. I look forward to more. Ann
Thank you for responding... love having dialogue. Yes, there are all kinds of churches. I found one that is a good model and involved in social justice issues, which is critical for me in any church I attend. I was speaking generally. The voting pattern of evangelicals alone will show their values... but I am glad you have found a community that reflects Jesus. It will get more and more complicated and I hope the churches look at our trends and what it is doing to mental health.
This has been a great series and very apropos. One thing I would have liked to hear your thoughts on more in depth is the power our minds have over our physiology. It’s well documented that mental attitude can change body chemistry. The problem, as I see it, is we are so reluctant to ever change our minds, or even attempt to. I think that’s what Rom. 12:1-2 is getting at - the “renewing of your mind” is one of the keys to transformation, and indeed, good mental health. How that happens is a much longer discussion but one that is important I believe.
What we do know is that our society is contributing to the decline of mental health. Loneliness, isolation, judging worth based on success, inequality, unregulated tech, and a lack of social programs contribute to depression, anxiety, and our rise in depression... to name a few. Church and christians are generally silent on these matters, and maybe not willing to look at the evidence of what we need to build in our societal communities for wellbeing. The church should be a voice in these matters, a model, and instead the evangelicals and conservative churches are applauding our capitalistic and individualistic country and want more of it, even cutting out all social programs and embracing the trickle down cruel economic system. The more liberal churches are not heard. Building the Kindgom of Heaven on earth concerns these matters.
Great point. I would like to encourage you that there are still churches that are getting it right. Their focus & resources are well distributed outside of Sunday morning in youth ministry, adult weekday small groups & community, singles ministry, college ministry, community outreach & financing that aren’t solely Christian organizations. Their message & mission is Jesus & only Him. This isn’t a shameless plug, I’m in the Atlanta area & my home church is Northpoint Community Church, lead pastor is Andy Stanley. After years of seeking God in all kinds of twisted ways I found a well rounded, Christ centered community there. They aren’t the only ones I’m just in Atlanta.
I heard you today on Paul's podcast. Very intriguing dialogue. So many similarities. Being from the recovery community I appreciated the ideas. This topic is so wide. I look forward to more. Ann
Thank you for responding... love having dialogue. Yes, there are all kinds of churches. I found one that is a good model and involved in social justice issues, which is critical for me in any church I attend. I was speaking generally. The voting pattern of evangelicals alone will show their values... but I am glad you have found a community that reflects Jesus. It will get more and more complicated and I hope the churches look at our trends and what it is doing to mental health.