In their book False Assumptions, Cloud and Townsend tell of a Christian client named Roy who struggled with depression to the point where he thought of suicide. His Christian friends tried to help him by saying pious things like, “Just trust in the Lord” and “Take some time off and rekindle your walk with God,” and “Just let God’s rod and staff be your comfort.” Roy did spend more time with the Bible and in prayer, but the depression and despair finally got the best of him. One night he sat in his house with a loaded revolver.
What saved Roy was a neighbor who came by to borrow a Phillips screwdriver. He sensed something was wrong, and started asking Roy some questions. And they started talking. Roy poured out his heart to this neighbor who simply listened, asked some questions, and offered no advice. He then invited Roy out to dinner, and they talked some more. When Roy got home, he unloaded his revolver and started down the road to recovery.
What Roy needed was not sanctimonious platitudes about God. He didn’t just need to read more and prayer harder. What Roy needed was to share his life with a friend. He needed people in his life. God was able to work through the listening ear of Roy’s neighbor in a way that was powerful. God moves in mysterious ways. Sometimes He works through our life circumstances. Sometimes He parts the Rea Sea. But often, He works through people and relationships.
If we are not working to deepen the relationships in our lives, then we may be limiting what God wants to do in us. Church is not a place to go, but a community of which to a part. One of the things we do at Denbigh to encourage relationship building is our Body Life small groups. And coincidently, our newest cycle of groups will begin Sunday. If you have not already taken the plunge to get involved in one of these, why not give it a try?
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