Prayers for those who are struggling with their Mental Health
“God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever” (Psalm 73: 26)
In just a matter of weeks, the dreaded COVID-19 virus turned the world upside down. And the effects of the coronavirus are still being felt.
We are being urged to keep our distance from others, even loved ones. We are trying to be frugal with our finances, with jobs under constant threat and savings being eaten away. We are keeping our families and little ones calm, while the anxiety silently threatens to overwhelm our already troubled hearts.
The retreat away from open society may have also led to a retreat into ourselves; a wrestling with the dark clouds of uncertainty on our own. Perhaps we feel more alone than ever with the burdens we carry.
Keeping our distance physically is a good thing when it comes to protecting one another from viruses. But distancing isn’t so good when it creeps into our relationships, especially our intimacy with God. Spiritual distance can quickly lead to spiritual darkness and mental and emotional fatigue.
The writer of Psalm 73 wisely concluded, “But as for me, it is good to be near God” (Psalm 73:28). But aren’t there days and seasons when God seems far off? Especially now, when things don’t add up; when life doesn’t make sense. The ‘wrong teams’ are winning (vv. 2–15). Confusion reigns in our lives and we cry out, “God, where are you? Have you forgotten about me?”
Then God breaks through. Sometimes it’s in the context of worship (vv. 16–17) or through reading Scripture or through the encouragement of friends. Our hearts become sensitive again; prayers begin to rise from within (vv. 23–25). Our sight becomes clear and once again we recognise that “God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever” (v. 26). Even when darkness threatens to overwhelm, we can come and know the Light of the world who is with us; right here, right now. When we feel at our lowest, we can be assured of God’s presence and draw close to Him.
Gracious heavenly Father, You gave us the highest honour in creation by creating us in Your image. But we struggle in this world of sin to keep our body and mind whole and healthy. Hear my prayer now for all who are battling mental health issues, especially during the isolation of lockdown restrictions. Extend Your abundant grace to them and meet their inner needs. Give them strength to resist the temptation to turn to addictive substances or activities, or anything that will only cause them harm. Show them positive ways to spend their time, fix their eyes upon You and Your word, remind them of songs and Scriptures, which will build their faith and bring them into a season of peace and refreshment. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
God our Father, by whose mercy the world turns safely into darkness and returns again to light each day: I entrust this extended time of darkness to You. I place into Your all-powerful hands the tasks I am unable to finish, the problems I cannot solve, the hopes and dreams which have been dashed, my family I am still distant from and the future which remains veiled. Bring this world back into the light of Your healing in Your perfect timing. Even though I face so much darkness, Christ remains the Light of the world; the Light by which I see my eternal hope each day. I place my faith firmly in Him for these days, Amen.
Almighty Father, there is such a barrage of conflicting information I hardly know who to trust, so I turn my eyes to You. You know all things. You know the end from the beginning. You have all power and authority. Nothing happens outside of Your control. I turn my soul now to You only, because no matter what happens Your Kingdom will not be shaken, Your power will not be weakened and Your people will not be defeated. Lead me in Your truth and make my footsteps firm. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
During these troubled times, more people than ever need God and the life-changing wisdom of His Word. We are not FCRA registered and do not receive any funds from abroad. Even the smallest donation you make will help us reach out to many more people across our country.
