More Than a Delusion

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10)

What a surprise. While the world of psychology and religion have often been at odds, University psychology departments are beginning to acknowledge the vital role spirituality plays in a person’s mental health. In the modern era, Sigmund Freud called religious faith “a delusion.” However, most psychology departments embraced Freud’s “belief” regarding spirituality for many decades. Thankfully, many in the psychology community are less antagonistic and open to the benefits of spirituality.

In his Washington Post article, “More psychotherapists are incorporating religion into their practices,” Richard Schiffman proclaims that “a growing number of psychologists believe that religion and spirituality have tools that can help in today’s mental health crisis.” The entire psychology community may not together join local congregations, but they see the profound benefits of prayer, mediation, and community support. Spiritual questions like life, death, calling, forgiveness, healing, etc., provide avenues to deeper understanding and well-being. Faith opens doors through the power of the Holy Spirit left unopened through other means.

Schiffman quotes a Presbyterian minister and hospital chaplain, Eric J. Hall, who states, “When people groan and ask, ‘God, why are you doing this to me? Why is there suffering in the world? What is the meaning and purpose of life?’-that is not a psychological problem. It’s a spiritual struggle.” Unfortunately, as society becomes more secular, people lose the language of faith. They can no longer articulate their groans or define their meaning and purpose beyond their occupation or relationship in their family. Rev. Hall continues, “Our spiritual struggles can lead to tremendous personal growth. But when the struggle deepens without the ability to process it, people’s health often deteriorates.” A healthy body, mind, and soul are all three necessities for long-term well-being.

We mainline Christians are embarrassed to use the word “evangelism,” but we have a message that brings healing and wholeness to lives that have lost their voice and inner direction. It would be unethical to stand in front of a person in physical need and do nothing. Nurturing someone’s spiritual life helps someone’s physical and emotional well-being. So today, pray for the courage and wisdom to step into the secular void and offer God’s meaningful words of hope and healing.