This post is part two of a series about Jesus being the way, the truth, and the life when battling mental illness. 

I want to demonstrate in which way God’s word, the Bible, is true when facing mental health problems. 

When you are wrestling with your mental health, it can be tough to control your thoughts. At times, it may feel like your thoughts control you. 

Your thoughts tend to be negative and often rely on assumptions. When you are in the middle of your thoughts racing around, it can be hard to distinguish between what is the truth and what you think is the truth. 

This is especially true when dealing with suicidal thoughts. 

Personally, I’ve had multiple experiences throughout my recovery process where my thoughts would spin around, beyond my control. Even though I was in medical treatment, at times it became unbearable. 

What helped me the most in these situations was meditating on God’s word. I believe that God’s word is the truth, no matter where my thoughts would go.   

At times, I would think that neither I nor my situation would ever get better. However, God’s word says: ‘For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.’ – Jeremiah 29:11

At moments when it felt like I was battling all by myself, God’s word would say: ‘Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.’ – Isaiah 41:10. 

God’s word is not only helpful when managing one’s thought life. It also offers hope and perspective when you find yourself in difficult situations. 

Meditating on these Bible verses changes your perspective from pain and difficulties towards promises and purpose. 

I believe the Bible is full of encouraging verses because God knew we would suffer while on earth (John 16:33).  

There were moments in my life when I had nothing to lean on except God’s word. 

Now, looking back, that was everything I needed.  

God is not a man, that He should lie, or a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and not act? Does He promise and not fulfill? – Numbers 23:19