Mental Health and Worship
I want to share something personal with you—my journey with worship, especially when I'm feeling down. You know, those times when it's hard to muster up the energy to sing praises or even believe in the words we're singing? Yeah, I've been there too.
Even as a musician.
Even as a worship leader.
I have this friend, Diana Marie, who's an incredible worship leader. She's not just talented with her voice, but her love for Jesus shines through in everything she does. She recently attended a MHxG workshop, and Diana shared something that really hit home for me.
Challenges in Mental Health and Ministry
She talked about how tough it can be to navigate mental health issues, especially when you're in a leadership role at church. It's like you're expected to have it all together, but deep down, you're struggling. And let me tell you, there's not always a lot of support or understanding from those around you.
Sometimes mental health is difficult to navigate in the church, especially as a worship leader, as a person who's in charge of a ministry, and it's like a front facing a lot. There’s not a lot of discipleship for us. - Diana
For me, it's always been my close friends and family who've been there for me—people who really care about my well-being. But even then, it's been a journey. I used to feel guilty when I led worship and didn't feel the lyrics were true for me that day. I thought something was wrong with me spiritually.
But you know what? I've learned that it's okay to not be okay sometimes. God meets us where we are, even in our messiest moments. And here's the thing: worship isn't just about singing songs on a Sunday morning. It's a lifestyle—a daily choice to connect with God in the midst of our struggles.
Personal Time with God
So, I started spending more time with God on my own. I'd play my guitar or sit at my piano and just pour out my heart to Him. Sometimes I'd end up in tears, but it was exactly what I needed. I realized God isn't ashamed of my emotions; He embraces them because He created me with them.
I was on Instagram and saw this reel that really stuck with me:
"If Jesus felt everything we felt, then no emotion can be a sin” - Dr. Anita Phillips
It was a weight lifted off my shoulders. I felt free to be honest with God about how I was feeling, knowing that He loves me unconditionally.
And you know what else? Taking time for personal worship made a world of difference. It's given me the strength and perspective to lead worship authentically, even on my toughest days. Because now I know that it's not about me having it all together—it's about God working through my not having it all together.
The added benefit is when those times of worship create the opportunity for tears, God is creating a space for you to unstop the suppression. He’s letting you know that, no, you don’t have to be okay here. You can be you. You don’t have to suppress what’s going on.
So, if you're struggling with mental health issues or feeling the pressure to be perfect, know you're not alone. God sees you, He loves you, and He wants to meet you where you are. Take some time today to worship Him in your own way, and watch how He transforms your heart.
Here's to embracing a lifestyle of worship—one that's real, raw, and filled with God's grace.
C. Lilley
