Struggling with anxiety

[2304ld]

I've got a query that I would be very grateful for any assistance with.

I feel like I've been on a tangent the past few years. I suffered a traumatic adolescence, however came through with the Lord's grace- I was doing so well that I basically started taking God's grace for granted. However, the past few months I've been really struggling- I have a plethora of mental health problems, the main being PTSD and social anxiety. I feel the need to go to church to reconnect with God- however I feel my social anxiety inhibit that. What does the Bible say about not going to church? Strictly speaking, do you need to go to church? I am painfully aware of the verse "Anyone who's ashamed of me I will be ashamed of in front of the father." Thanks in advance.

 

[Sola1517]

Okay, if you weren't ill I would tell you Hebrews 10:25. Maybe you could use some fellowship and/or counseling.

I get the feeling some church people have put you in a tight space... Am I right?

 

[Tigerfan01]

I went through the same thing with church and suffering from social anxiety. I would just watch pastors on tv and thought that would be enough. I would study the Bible on my own also. This is definitely a good source of learning and growing in your personal relationship with God, unfortunately I realized that God calls us to be part of the church, which is the body of Christ. we are meant to strengthen each other along this journey. This is a tough journey as disciples, but together as brothers and sisters we can help each other along the way.
It started for me by going by myself and sitting way in back. I know how tough it is though.

 

[Daniel Marsh]

Look into a dale carney course to deal with the social anxiety.

Also, check out the sermon on the mount in Matthew.

 

[Celestial Warrior]

I've got a query that I would be very grateful for any assistance with.

I feel like I've been on a tangent the past few years. I suffered a traumatic adolescence, however came through with the Lord's grace- I was doing so well that I basically started taking God's grace for granted. However, the past few months I've been really struggling- I have a plethora of mental health problems, the main being PTSD and social anxiety. I feel the need to go to church to reconnect with God- however I feel my social anxiety inhibit that. What does the Bible say about not going to church? Strictly speaking, do you need to go to church? I am painfully aware of the verse "Anyone who's ashamed of me I will be ashamed of in front of the father." Thanks in advance.

Whenever and wherever you are and you are talking to people about our Lord Jesus and the Gospel - then YOU ARE IN CHURCH:

Mat 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

 

[kodadog1024]

Yea, "church", as many people think of is NOT Christ's meaning. Celestial Warrior said it best, WE are the church. But to answer your original question, no you don't have to go to a physical place called "church". The 12 disciples worshiped wherever Christ lead them... outside, inside, didn't matter. Christ himself even went alone, by himself to pray.

 

[Celestial Warrior]

I've got a query that I would be very grateful for any assistance with.

I feel like I've been on a tangent the past few years. I suffered a traumatic adolescence, however came through with the Lord's grace- I was doing so well that I basically started taking God's grace for granted. However, the past few months I've been really struggling- I have a plethora of mental health problems, the main being PTSD and social anxiety. I feel the need to go to church to reconnect with God- however I feel my social anxiety inhibit that. What does the Bible say about not going to church? Strictly speaking, do you need to go to church? I am painfully aware of the verse "Anyone who's ashamed of me I will be ashamed of in front of the father." Thanks in advance.

I also suffer from PTSD, anxiety and a host of other problems. Don't be afraid that your choice to NOT go to church has anything to do with being ashamed of our Lord Jesus. Rest assured, God knows your heart and the true reasons for why you aren't sure, that church is for you.
Mat 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. - our Lord Jesus said. Even if you stay at home and talk to one other person about our Lord Jesus, you are in church.

 

[JRChristian]

Sorry for your condition. I have severe panic attacks, anxiety, ptsd. I sat at home in full agaoraphobic mode imagining going to church. I was yearning for it so badly. So I walked one block toward it and went home. Another day I walked 2 blocks. Finally made it to the door and knew I was ready to come on Sunday. I sat nearer the back so if be close to the door. I had a few attacks during the service but I just prayed and breathed.

I pray for God's peace to wash over me so that I may worship him, for his glory. And he answers this prayer. I can sing and pray and take communion, share the peace and spread the holy spirit to others through his grace. It is the best day of my week.

You don't have to go to church, but don't let your condition rob you of something you want. Worshipping together with the body of Christ is a special thing to be part of. Trust on him to sustain your every second and he will. I pray: Father be my breath, be my heart, be my mind. Fill me with your spirit and let me be an example of your love. For your glory. In Jesus name.

Hope this helps. God bless.

 

[DavidNunes213]

I 2nd what JRChristian said.

Pray, try taking baby steps, and never feel condemned. God knows your pain and what you have to go through. If you yearn to go to church to be in the company of other believers one day, you'll get there.

When reasonable, I've been able to push through my depression and anxiety to get to church to serve or worship and in somes cases it's actually helped. Not to say that will work for you but it has for me at times.

Hope you feel feel better soon.

 

[faroukfarouk]

Okay, if you weren't ill I would tell you Hebrews 10:25. Maybe you could use some fellowship and/or counseling.

I get the feeling some church people have put you in a tight space... Am I right?

Sola1517: This is a really great verse! it's important to keep meeting with other Christians to read the Bible and pray together.

 

[faroukfarouk]

John 14 is a wonderful chapter for Christians with anxiety.

 

[Not Hellbound]

Going back sounds like it would be the best option for you, the longer you leave it the more you are going to think there truly is something to fear and avoid it even more (something which Satan would most definitely want.) Perhaps seek out the help of a christian counselor or your pastor? They will be able to guide you through this and help you.

 

[faroukfarouk]

Daily prayer and the Scriptures are so important.