On Being Diagnosed with a Mental Disorder
& Identity in Christ

While the problems experienced by those labeled with a mental disorder may vary from person to person, the Scriptures offer us a redemptive perspective from which to process these difficult circumstances. In this session, I share my story of being previously labeled with a mental disorder, and explain how biblical truths about my identity in Christ gave me renewed hope on my journey to healing.

Throughout this recording, I offer insights as to how identity in Christ informs our perspective, purpose, and plans as we work through the hard questions that come with being diagnosed with a mental disorder. By doing so, I hope to encourage viewers to remember that the truest thing about them is not their diagnosis, but their status as a redeemed child of God.

This recording was taken from a live Zoom presentation broadcasted to a live audience at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Centereach, NY during an event they hosted for their congregants on the topic of emotional/spiritual/mental health. It is being shared publicly with permission of the event host.

• Romans 5:3-5
• Isaiah 61:3
• 1 Peter 2:9-10
• Romans 9:25
• 2 Corinthians 5:17
• John 1:12-13
• 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

• 1 Corinthians 10:31
• John 6:28-29
• 2 Corinthians 1:3-7
• 2 Corinthians 4:16
• 2 Corinthians 4:17
• Romans 8:28

• Identity in Christ informs our perspective, purpose, and plans.
• God uses suffering as a catalyst for transformation.
• Labels can skew our perspective.
• A diagnosis does not supersede or void our identity in Christ.
• Identity in Christ helps us to interpret our problems.
• There is hope: God will continue to change you from the inside out.
• God calls us by name to have a seat at his table.
• It's possible for us to worship healing more than God.
• When we idolize healing, we'll inevitably cycle in and out of despair.
• God simplifies our goal for living.
• We can bring glory to God in simple ways.
• Living to bring glory to God is a goal within reach today.
• When good goals become ultimate goals, they turn into burdens.

• God isn't calling us to obtain complete self-knowledge.
• Today we can choose to glorify God and believe his word.
• We glorify God in our sorrow when we bring him our tears.
• God invites us to become his adopted child through Christ.
• A diagnosis is not the truest thing about you.
• God will use this experience to grow you, glorify him, and gift his church.
• We can choose to steward our stories to the glory of God.
• God's promises give us hope when we feel trapped by a diagnosis.
• Nothing—not even a diagnosis—can separate you from God's love.
• God's got a grip on you, and you can trust him.
• Diagnostic criteria changes—God view of you does not.
• Remember what's most true—take refuge and rest in Christ.