Six Helpful Things to Do - Pt 5

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler. (Psalm 91:1-4 ESV).

When we have visited Gatlinburg, Tennessee in the past, we have often taken the short loop through the mountains known as the Roaring Fork Motor Trail. Beginning and ending within miles of downtown Gatlinburg, the trail is a one-way drive that takes visitors along a 5.5 mile experience through the National Park. The beauty is unmistakable; wildlife is abundant; and, the river cascading along the trail is truly magnificent. The photo you see here is taken from one of the spots Mary and I have been to on our many trips to the site. I suppose one of the amazing things is how the rocks seem to have each been placed in such perfect balance to the environment. It is a tremendous temptation to venture out on to the rocks for even better photos. My personal favorite is simply sitting by the river and listening to the quiet babbling of the river winding its way down from the mountain top. It gives me a sense of balance. After reading our Scripture again today, I was brought back to this though. Balance is so important in a contented life. This is especially true for those who are enduring the ravages of mental illness. There are many paths to living a balanced life. The Christian perspective to having a balanced life begins by examining our relationship with God. It is this perspective that we can both model and teach to those who are hurting. Because we can often feel alone when life becomes overwhelming, a relationship with God means that you are never alone. The more intimate our relationship with God the more we can experience His help even in the toughest of times. So, as we look at the fifth practical thing we can do for others who are ill, we should help them achieve this balance. Though a search for the answer is usually misguided, we always need to know someone better. The challenge, both one-to-one and in groups, is to love others by knowing them and to love them by including them in the community where we hear the word, know other people’s joys and struggles, and participate in worship. By making yourself available for others to simply be with, you help them find balance. You don’t need to know any “answers” to accomplish this kind of work; you simply need to know the One who is the answer. Make it you aim to be that kind of friend to those who are struggling, especially if their struggle is with mental illness.