Dear Jennifer,
I have been walking around for some years with a secret...I have bi-polar disorder and I am a Christian. I am not on medication, and when I was first diagnosed, my husband totally became distant. I tried to explain what the disorder is, and he simply told me it is all in my head. Nine years ago, I tried to seek help from my brothers and sisters in the faith. Although they meant well, it was scary or totally new to them. I was even explained that this disorder was connected to demon possession. I soon claimed to everyone that the Lord healed me, and quite honestly, I was hoping that through my faith, the healing will come...and I still believe. However, in the meantime, I am quietly and secretly coping. It is becoming harder to cope with because of age factors. I am 35 years old, and although very young, my hormones are shifting in a new direction. I stopped seeking professional help for fear my husband finds out. Please help me find common ground. I am ashamed and would greatly appreciate your prayers and comments. I would like to know if there are any more Christians facing this battle. Thank you.
God Bless You.
Karen
Answer:
Perhaps it's time again to seek help from a physician. Of course, as we age and other things in our bodies change, existing conditions can sometimes be pronounced or exacerbated. Why suffer when you don't need to? God often uses doctors and medications as His agents of healing. Your doctor can check and find out exactly what is wrong and what can be corrected. Perhaps your husband could even join you on a visit to the doctor so he could hear from a professional the nature of your struggle.
Faith is expressed in many ways--praying for healing, believing for healing and visiting a physician for healing. I pray you find an ally in a physician, strength in God and understanding in your husband.
May God's grace help you be brave, my sister, and walk by faith.
JenniferAnd, now the beans are officially spilled!
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