Second-Hand Struggle

Oasis Church at Hephzibah

Second-Hand Struggle

Part 4

April 28, 2024 • Pastor Wesley Weatherford • Luke 9:37–43, Proverbs 12:18, Romans 15:7

This message delves into mental illness, its stigma, and the challenges it presents to affected individuals and their caregivers. It underscores the need for a non-judgmental environment, consistent support, and guiding individuals toward their purpose. The role of the church in aiding those battling mental illness is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of peace, hope, and commitment.

Q&A

What is the series 'Mind Games' about?

The series 'Mind Games' is about the enemy's attempts to play games with our minds and how mental illness is still a taboo topic, especially in the church.

Who does mental illness affect?

Mental illness not only affects those who are navigating the illness or disease, but also those who care for or walk with them.

What are some of the challenges faced by those who care for someone with mental illness?

Those who care for someone with mental illness face challenges such as witnessing the ups and downs of treatment, trial periods of prescriptions, swings of disengagement, and even potential attempts at self-harm.

Why is being present important when supporting someone with mental illness?

Being present is important because isolation can worsen the battle with mental illness, and the presence of a friend can be as powerful as a prescription.

What is the final step in supporting someone with mental illness?

The final step is to keep showing up, even when progress seems slow or messy. As followers of Jesus, we are called to persevere and continue supporting those with mental illness.

What is the greatest opportunity of the 21st century?

The greatest opportunity of the 21st century is to be peacemakers and carriers of God's peace. By staying in the fight, showing up, and being present, we can dispense peace to those who are desperate for it.

Digging Out Of Depression

April 21, 2024 • Pastor Wesley Weatherford • 1 Kings 19:3–11, Isaiah 61:3

Our series on mental illness continues, emphasizing the crucial role of the church in providing hope and grace. The focus shifts to depression, exploring its various types and the necessity for a holistic approach. Worship is underscored as a potent tool for replacing fear and depression with peace and joy. Pastor Wesley also discusses the damaging habit of rumination and the influence of self-talk on mental health. What are the three major categories of depression? The three major categories of depression are clinical depression, chronic depression, and lifestyle depression. What is clinical depression? Clinical depression is a major depressive episode that lasts around two weeks and disrupts sleep, appetite, relationships, and concentration. What is lifestyle depression? Lifestyle depression is when you have symptoms of depression, but the source is more tied to how you're living rather than a disease. It is less about chemical imbalances and more about life imbalances. Why is worship considered the greatest antidepressant? Worship is considered the greatest antidepressant because it promotes brain health, stabilizes moods, and allows us to encounter the presence of God, which brings peace, joy, rest, confidence, and power. How can you reset your rumination? To reset rumination, you can stand on God's word, which recalibrates the mind and realigns focus. Regularly taking in God's word and exchanging self-talk for God thoughts can help come out of a negative mindset.

Attack Anxiety

April 14, 2024 • Pastor Wesley Weatherford • Joshua 6:2–3, Joshua 5:14–15, Joshua 6:15, Galatians 5:11, Joshua 4:5–7

As Pastor Wesley continues our series, Mind Games, he addresses a topic many struggle with; anxiety. Through the message, and with Biblical examples, Pastor Wesley emphasizes the importance of remembering God's faithfulness and seeking support from loved ones and the church community. The discussion includes the role of counseling in mental health, the impact of religious beliefs on therapy, and the importance of overcoming isolation. He encourages continual growth, celebrating progress, and surrendering control through prayer. Q&A What is the purpose of building a memorial in the story of Joshua and the walls of Jericho? The purpose of building a memorial in the story of Joshua and the walls of Jericho was to serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness. It was meant to help the people remember how God had been with them in the past and how he had performed miracles for them. The memorial was placed at the point where they would enter the promised land, so that whenever they were tempted to go back to their old life, they would have to walk past it and remember God's faithfulness. What factors contribute to mental disorders and mental illness? Mental disorders and mental illness result from a complex interaction of biological and environmental factors. While genetics and brain chemistry play a role, environmental factors such as trauma, stress, and exposure to toxins can also contribute. It's important to understand that mental disorders are not solely caused by personal weakness or character flaws, but are legitimate medical conditions that can be treated and managed. Why is the partnership between doctors and counselors essential? The partnership between doctors and counselors is essential because it allows for a holistic approach to healthcare. While doctors focus on the physical aspects of health, counselors specialize in mental and emotional well-being. By working together, they can address both the physical and psychological aspects of a person's health, leading to more comprehensive and effective treatment. How can personal religious beliefs affect therapy? Personal religious beliefs can significantly affect therapy. Research has shown that a therapist's personal religious beliefs can influence how they treat a patient. It's important to find a therapist who encourages and supports your faith, as this can contribute to a more positive therapeutic experience. Having a therapist who aligns with your religious beliefs can help create a safe and supportive environment for your mental and emotional well-being. Why is it important to bring your battle into the light? Bringing your battle into the light is important because keeping everything in the dark can hold you back and cause harm. When you share your struggles with trusted individuals or seek professional help, you create opportunities for support, understanding, and healing. Opening up about your challenges allows others to offer assistance and can help you feel less isolated in your journey towards wholeness. Why is it important to repeat the process of attacking anxiety? Repeating the process of attacking anxiety is important because each struggle is different, and resolution looks different for every person and situation. Rather than seeking a cure, it's more beneficial to focus on continually getting better and growing. Each step, each session, and each moment of transparency brings you closer to healing and freedom. Celebrating every small victory along the way can provide motivation and encouragement.

You're Not Enough

April 7, 2024 • Pastor Chris Lotz • Matthew 4:2–4, Hebrews 9:13–15, John 10:10

Pastor Chris kicks off our new series, Mind Games, with the topic of self-doubt, underscoring the significance of embracing and living by God's perception ourself. #MentalHealth #SelfDoubt #Faith Q&A What is the battle in our minds? The battle in our minds can lead to feelings of hopelessness, self-doubt, depression, and anxiety. In his message, Pastor Chris emphasizes the importance of winning this battle and not letting negative thoughts consume us. How can we live according to God's opinion? We can live from the basis of God's opinion by speaking, making decisions, and worshiping in alignment with God's view of us. Pastor Chris emphasized the need to surrender to God's will and respond to His love and sacrifice with a devoted life. What changes when you walk in God's opinion and authority? Your thoughts and actions change, and your life moves towards your strongest thought.