As I walked through the last two years, I have experienced many things I was taught could be healed through repentance and a greater devotion to God. For example, depression is a sin issue. You are thinking too much about yourself. Confess and get busy serving. And of course, panic attacks are a sign that worry has built a stronghold in your heart. Confess it and memorize a few verses. Prior to walking through these valleys myself, I would have used that exact counsel for others. Funny how an unexpected journey into depression and panic attacks can change one's perspective.
Last night I was reading a rough draft of a friend's book on pain. He shares some of his journey through Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, but then the preacher in him comes out. He holds out all the right answers for pain. Do this and God will do this. Believe this and you will be rewarded with this. I know that his faith is woven in a multicolored tapestry, but his answers read as just that. Answers.
In my own pain, my own valleys, I can't stomach someone with all the answers. I am drawn to those who will walk beside me living out the journey with me. Christians are not a lucky minority who happen to hold all the answers. Jesus is not a panacea for our pain. There are no magic pills to dull life's pain. But there is great comfort and strength in companionship, both earthly and heavenly.
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