Growing in Faith Through Mental Health Struggles - Kali Lilienthal

Struggling with mental health can be part of being human in a broken world. Disciples of Christ have never been promised a trouble-free life. As many faithful believers, including Joni Eareckson Tada, can attest, grappling with depression and other mental health challenges, and even crises, is often part of the Christian walk. Our guest today, Joni and Friends staff member Kali Lilienthal, shares her story of how God has worked through medical and mental health professionals, community, Scripture, and prayer to turn her season of difficulty with depression and anxiety into one of deepening faith in Jesus. Don’t miss this encouraging conversation, which will remind you that you and your loved ones are never alone, even as you walk through dark valleys. 

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When a broken neck upended her plans at age 17, Joni Eareckson Tada thought life was over. She fell into a deep depression. And over decades, Joni’s paralysis and pain often made her feel like giving up. But God’s presence and Word have always held her up when she might otherwise have fallen.

Joni anchors her emotions to the Lord’s powerful promises, like the one found in Lamentations 3:21–23: “Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

While depression sometimes lurks nearby for Joni, she invites God to illuminate the shadows, and her heart, with his bright truth. And she prays, “Let my life be a testament that ‘the precepts of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart; the commandments of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes’ (Psalm 19:8).”

Hear from Joni Eareckson Tada’s heart on the topic of depression

Hear Joni share about how God has redeemed her deep suffering

KEY QUESTIONS:

• Are you or someone close to you struggling with mental health challenges? If so, reach out for support.
• Who in your community or church needs someone to check on them today? Ask God how you can reach out to be an encouragement.
• Whom or what has God used in your life to bring about healing (community, prayer, medical support)?

KEY SCRIPTURES:

• Colossians 1:27: “To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”
• John 16:33: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
• Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

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Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Founded by Joni Eareckson Tada, we provide Christ-centered care through Joni's House, Wheels for the World, Retreats and Getaways, and disability ministry training.

 

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