Mental health is a major issue in our society. I could reference multiple sources that would substantiate the large number of people dealing with depression and other kinds of mental health issues. If we don’t know anyone closely dealing with a mental health issue it is commonly referenced in the media in an attempt to explain the behavior of people. You have heard me reference the Surgeon General’s report on the effects of isolation and loneliness in America. In that report, depression and mental health issues are listed as some of the major outcomes of isolation. Our society is struggling with how to deal with our emotions in a healthy way. People need to be in community with the people in their communities. 

Our theme for October is “Hope Happens Here” as a signal to call people back to church and ultimately back to God as the place where Hope is found. Hope that will alleviate the pressures resulting in depression. In Psalm 42 (our text for Sunday) we read the phrase “Deep calls to deep . . .” At times, the trials that lead to emotional distress seem to be like a tidal wave that is more than we can handle. Psalm 42 tells us that it is in those moments when we are feeling overwhelmed, that if we seek God we will hear Him and see Him in a deeper way. Only God can speak deeply to the deep issues of our life. 

Three times in Psalm 42-43 we will see the phrase “put your hope in God.” God calls us to put our hope in Him while the devil would have us put our hope in anything other than God. The result of not placing our hope in God is the effects of isolation only grow greater. Join me this Sunday as we look to God’s word for help with depression and answers to mental health issues.