Sarah’s spirit is crushed by neglect. Significant persons in her life ignore her existence. She has clung to hope for change all her life. Now a gaping, hollow cavern in her middle tempts her to search for love in unhealthy ways.

She truly does not know how to go on. She is starving.

When Jesus said to give food to the hungry, he meant literal food for those who are physically hungry. Other types of hunger also deserve our attention, especially when they negatively affect one’s mental health and ability to live in God’s love.

Emotional needs matter. We need love from a stable and unchanging place. That is why  we can point to the love of God in Jesus Christ without fear. He is the same “yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8) Yet he created us for each other too, did he not? “You place the lonely in families,” the songwriter sang (Psalm 68:6). God’s Word as a whole is evidence of our need for human connection. Even Jesus had friends.

Feeding emotionally hungry people includes expressing sincere, non-critical  acceptance. If this seems challenging, remember the investment you are making. When someone’s emotional tank is full, he or she is no longer needy!

We extend God’s compassion by offering unadulterated love to those who hunger for it.  A human’s  inherent worthiness of love is what God says it is. “For God loved the world so much that he gave his One-of-a-Kind Son, that whoever believes on him will not perish but have everlasting life.  For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” (John 3:16)

Today’s Helpful Word

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair.

NOTE: I am not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speak only from personal experiences and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

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