Embracing Emotional Health

Believe it or not, our emotional health and spiritual maturity are inseparably linked.

It's a startling truth that many Christians, regardless of age, are functioning at an emotional level far below their chronological age. This gap manifests in various ways - struggling with handling emotions like anger and sadness, fear of honesty in relationships, conflict avoidance, and a tendency to over-function in others' lives. Unfortunately, this emotional immaturity often translates into a love and desire for Jesus that doesn't extend to loving people around us.

But here's where it gets interesting. According to scripture, particularly 1 John Chapter 4, real emotional maturity is deeply rooted in the agape love of Jesus Christ. This love, self-sacrificing and all-encompassing, should be the hallmark of every born-again believer.

So, how are we doing in this area? Are we showing this agape love to those around us, especially to those who challenge us or with whom we disagree? This is the true test of our emotional and spiritual maturity. A love for God that doesn't transform into a love for people is incomplete.

Peter Scazzero, in his book "Emotionally Healthy Discipleship," highlights the signs of emotional immaturity and challenges us to grow beyond them. It's about moving from self-centeredness, where everything is about 'me,' to a place of self-sacrifice and genuine concern for others.

Today, God calls us to be His representatives - "God with skin on" - to the people around us. This calling is about more than just words; it's about action. It's about dying to our own needs and wants and focusing on how we can love others well.

This love is not just a feeling; it's an action. It starts with entering another person's world through active listening and genuine empathy. It's about translating our love for Jesus into tangible actions towards people.
But let's be honest, this isn't easy. It goes against our natural inclinations. Yet, it's what we're called to as followers of Christ. We are to be the best lovers of people on the face of the earth, reflecting Jesus' love in every interaction.

As we continue on this journey of emotional and spiritual growth, let's challenge ourselves. How can we show Jesus' love to someone today? How can we be 'God with skin on' to those around us? Let's not just be hearers of the Word, but doers as well.

Remember, "loving people well is the defining characteristic of a mature Christian." Let's strive to be that kind of believer.

​- Adapted from sermons preached across our 3 campuses on 11/19/23.