The Law, Liberty and Mental Health

  Have you ever truly considered how much liberty is afforded us in keeping God's law? According to AI, liberty is “freedom from sin's power and guilt, leading to a life of righteousness and a closer relationship with God”. This liberty is possible through the great sacrifice Jesus made out of His love for us, to pay the penalty for the breaking of His immutable law. The law is a reflection of the thoughts and the character of God. And since God’s law is “holy, just and good” (Romans 7:12), in honoring and obeying His law, the tenor of your thoughts change from thoughts that speak death to the soul to words of life, as you allow God the permission to work in you to will and accomplish His desire for your thoughts and affection (Philippians 2:13).

    The truth is every good principle finds its roots in the commandments of God which are found in His Holy Word. One of Jesus' commendations given to the Ephesus Church was that they hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans. Why did the Ephesus Church hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans? It is because of antinomianism, which means “against law”. But even elementary school age children can elucidate on the importance of rules or laws, and tell you what rules work effectively for their class. Somehow some children seem to be able to tolerate chaos, but they are smart enough to know it is not sustainable. Mental health is a challenge where order ceases to exist.

     God requires everyone to follow the directions of the Word. “The testimony (law) of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple” (Psalm 19:7). By embracing Christian principles which are built upon the foundation of love, ideas and beliefs that are not conducive to mental health are rejected in the name of Jesus. The thought to keep malice against family who has hurt you will be replaced by God’s command — “Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another” (Ephesians 4:32). Tempted to take revenge against an enemy? The choice must be God’s command to “love your enemies” (Matthew 5:44).

    You need the help of the Holy Spirit to be able to detect distorted or evil thoughts. The amazing thing is that “Christ is the model upon which the Spirit works. By the ministry of His Word, by His providences, by His inward working, God stamps the likeness of Christ upon the soul” (Ellen White, This Day With God, p. 46). That could only result in good mental health!

Law Liberty Mental Health