Pastor Michael Scholtes: Battling Depression with Faith and Resilience
I don't hear the voice of god like a prophet might, but thanks to reading scripture and being around other people who remind me about God's love, I feel like I hear God's voice reminding me over and over again: I do love you, I do love you, I made you right and I have a job for you.
Depression can feel like an endless dark tunnel, but Pastor Michael J Scholtes shares how he found light through faith in this heartfelt episode of 'That Christian In Recovery'. Host Vernon Layne dives deep into Scholtes' memoir, 'Darkwater', uncovering the pastor's intense struggle with depression and his journey towards healing. Scholtes opens up about the haunting negative voice that plagued him, making him feel worthless and unworthy.
Yet, through scripture and the support of loved ones, he discovered God's reassuring voice, reminding him of his inherent worth and purpose. Scholtes doesn’t shy away from discussing his darkest moments, including a teenage suicide attempt, and how he eventually found hope in God's love. He provides valuable advice for those grappling with depression, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and breaking the silence by confiding in someone trusted.
Scholtes also tackles the stigma around mental illness, often wrongly perceived as a moral failing, and stresses the need for compassion and understanding within church communities. Throughout the episode, listeners will find inspiration in Scholtes' message that real faith embraces our imperfections and acknowledges God's presence even in our lowest moments. This episode is a beacon of hope for anyone struggling with depression or supporting a loved one through it.
Pastor Scholtes' story is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and the transformative strength of God's love.