One of the values that is prized in our culture, particularly among younger adults, is authenticity. There is an exaltation of (and an exultation in) the authentic. We all have seen the many “coming-out” or “transitioning” stories that describe an experience of liberation coming from an embrace of one’s “authentic self”.
I know and have counseled many believers who despise the introverted experience. They feel a sense of guilt for needing time alone, and many even simply learn how to fake acting extroverted as often as the situation requires it.
While I don’t pretend to know every reason, as a therapist I do know something about diagnosing problems.
Just as God does, we are supposed to show a special deference, kindness, patience and compassion to those who are questioning, unsure, or are having their convictions shaken. Why then, is this not often the response to doubt?
In following Jesus’ example, we can be an example to others who are seeking a better way to respond in this crisis.
In a time like this, we have a choice about how we will respond to loneliness, and there are good and bad responses.
If you have either been around younger people of this sort or perused some of the more popular youth-oriented magazines and newspapers, I do not doubt that you will have heard of the Enneagram.
I passionately believe in the power of prayer and in the healing work of the Holy Spirit, but it can do more harm than good to tell a person languishing in depression that they simply need to pray, or to apply Philippians 4:6 like a Band-Aid to someone who may very well have an anxiety disorder or deep-rooted trauma.
