Christians and Therapy: Won’t God Fix My Problems?
Christians sometimes ask, why would I need to go to counseling if God can just fix my problem? Isn’t God powerful enough to take care of my mental health challenges on his own? This is a good question that deserves a good answer.
Yes, God has the power to fix your mental health problems. He could just do that. But it’s important to consider that it may not be when (or how) you want it done. And sometimes, in his infinite wisdom and compassion, he doesn't. I touched on why God allows suffering in our lives in my 3 part blog series “God and Suffering.”
Life with Jesus is not always easy
There is a common false belief that when we have Jesus, our lives become manageable, easy, and comfortable. Sometimes we hold this belief and don’t even realize it. I must admit that I once believed that I would be impervious to pain since God was for me. I was half-right; God is for me. But nowhere does he promise us an easy life free from traffic, mosquitos, inflation, or updates that slow down our phones.
In John 16:33, Jesus tells his disciples, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
Christians, like everyone else, will inevitably suffer in this life. Being in Christ does not end our temporary suffering on earth. Still, we can trust that no matter what we go through here, if we place our hope in Christ, one day he will wipe away all of our tears. Until then though, we need to run the race of life with all of its peaks and valleys.
If God doesn’t fix my problems, what can I do?
So if God won’t take away my problems, what am I supposed to do? Here are four things to look at.
1. Trust and examine
First, we can trust God that, no matter what we go through, he is with us and loves us. There may be a reason he hasn’t fixed our problem or taken away our pain yet.
2. Reach out and bring it to the light
Second, we can reach out to others for help. God tells us to help each other. Reach out to a family member, friend, teacher, or pastor. Often, just talking with someone we feel safe with helps us feel less alone in our struggles. Bringing things into the light gives God room to work.
3. Consider professional solutions
Third, some problems need professional solutions. If you need the kind of help for an issue that a friend or family member can't fix, then it may be time to speak to someone trained to help you work through it. Pastors often know when to refer to a therapist. Maybe there is trauma that needs to be processed or a relationship that needs some serious repair. Maybe it’s a secret addiction, deep depression, or anxiety holding you back from life. Sometimes it takes professional help to find freedom from these things.
4. Trust and remember
Lastly, we can trust God to be with us as we go through the problem. Remember he promises never to leave or forsake us—even in the midst of profound suffering. He cares deeply for us, and he is with us in our pain. God develops endurance, character, and hope in us. He also puts people in our lives that can help us, and on the other side of our struggles, he strengthens us so we can help others through their own trials.
The Christian therapists at CCCRD are here for you if you need us. They will not only provide excellent therapy to manage and overcome your mental health concerns, but will also look at your problems and solutions through the lens of scripture, invite God into the session, and pray with you too!