Live Faithfully: A Journey of David & His Psalms, with Lessons for Mental Health

"Sugg. Donation" 

Cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most well studied and effective treatments for a variety of mental health conditions. At the core of cognitive behavioral therapy is one's underlying beliefs. Every thought and feeling that is analyzed in therapy is compared to the underlying value and belief system that governs the person's life. In order to truly find consistent and long lasting benefit from this type of treatment, one needs to hold an accurate belief system of the world, themselves, and others. Many may argue that truth is relative, and it may change based on the person's upbringing, environment, existence, etc. But the Christian perspective is that Christ is "the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" (John 14:6). If nobody goes to God except through Christ, then truth is not relative. Chris is Truth, so Truth is absolute. Which means all of one's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors needs to be measured up in line with Christ's teaching in order to have lasting benefit. This book shows how David, who is a prophecy of Christ, deals with adverse circumstances in his life. Over and over he resorted to prayer, praise, and worshiping God. We discover that God answers David's prayers because he was aiming to live a holy and good life. In the moments that David was not living a good life, he was able to confess his faults and change his ways. It is through this change that he finds relief. I think part of the mental health treatment is also to stop bad habits or actions, even incorrect thoughts, and transform them to something more holy, good, and constructive. Following Christ's example one how to live will help one to practice sound health. Even if one lives a perfect life, it may not prevent illnesses and suffering from happening. But following the life of Christ and living with fruits of the Holy Spirit can help one to exercise self-control, and exercising self-control can help one to not act out on anger, abuse drugs, alcohol, porn, or other self-destructive behaviors. I hope this work is able to get the message across that Christ provides health and healing. It doesn't mean to not see a medical professional, or to not take medications. Actually, when one's thoughts, feelings, or behaviors impacts their work or relationships, it is important to seek professional help. But perhaps this work can help with people who are not yet at that point, or perhaps help prevent people from getting to that point. Or, maybe this work can be one of many resources one can use, along with taking medications, seeing a professional, presenting the circumstances to God, or serving others in one's community.