Faith
Prioritizing Spiritual Health for a Balanced Life
In a world increasingly focused on physical health, it’s crucial to remember the importance of nurturing our spiritual well-being. Dr. Marty Makary, appointed by President Donald Trump as the new head of the Food and Drug Administration, has emphasized the often-overlooked necessity of “soul care” as a vital component of overall health. Makary’s insights align with the core values of faith and family, reminding us that true health extends beyond the physical to encompass the mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of our lives.
Makary’s endorsement of Kerry Hasenbalg’s book, *The Way of Becoming: 12 Practices for a Thriving Soul*, highlights the significance of addressing our spiritual needs. Hasenbalg, who serves as the personal soul care advisor to Makary and his wife, offers practical guidance for developing a closer relationship with God. The book focuses on three essential pillars of spiritual care: reconciliation with God, reconciliation within oneself, and reconciliation with others.
“Soul care isn’t just for leaders or those in crisis — it’s for everyone,” Hasenbalg asserts, emphasizing that tending to our spiritual health is the only path to wholeness when life challenges us.
In today’s society, where many young people, particularly from Generation Z, face increasing levels of anxiety and depression, the need for a strong spiritual foundation is more apparent than ever. A study by the Cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University reveals a concerning link between the absence of a biblical worldview and the mental health crisis in America. This study suggests that the rise in mental health issues is not merely due to psychological or chemical imbalances but rather “worldview deficiencies.”
George Barna, a researcher involved in the study, points out that only a small fraction of Gen Zers and millennials possess a biblical worldview. This lack of spiritual grounding often leads to feelings of hopelessness and a life lacking purpose. Barna highlights the importance of a biblical perspective, stating, “Without a solid foundation of truth, their lives become inconsistent and chaotic.”
The findings underscore the critical role of faith in providing emotional stability and a sense of purpose. A life rooted in biblical principles offers a framework for navigating life’s challenges with hope and resilience.
In a time when many young adults are drawn to syncretism, embracing a mix of beliefs without a clear foundation, the call to return to a biblical worldview is more urgent than ever. The values of faith, family, and freedom are not just traditional ideals; they are essential components of a fulfilling and stable life.
As we strive to uphold these values, let us remember the wisdom of Dr. Makary and the insights of researchers like Barna. By prioritizing soul care and embracing a biblical worldview, we can foster a society that is not only physically healthy but also spiritually and emotionally robust.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Faith Facts
- The West’s abandonment of Christian morality has led to widespread sexual exploitation and depravity.
- In 2021, more than 21,000 instances of child sexual abuse were removed from a single major online platform, exposing the scale of the problem.
- Scripture teaches that without God’s restraint and grace, the human heart is prone to selfishness and sin.
Recent revelations highlight how abuse of power and moral decay reach across all societies, from the wealthy elite to ordinary communities.
Industrialized exploitation, fueled by a culture that glorifies self-indulgence, has placed millions in bondage to destructive behaviors.
“The apostle Paul warned that people would become ‘lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.'”
Our society’s rejection of biblical boundaries has not brought the promised liberation, but a growing economy built on human weakness and brokenness.
God’s Word offers hope—a call to purity, covenantal relationships, and valuing every human person as made in His image.
Now is the time for Christians to stand boldly for truth, grace, and the transformative power of the Gospel in reclaiming our families and communities.
Faith Facts
- Criminal charges filed against Catholicos Karekin II, head of the Armenian Apostolic Church.
- Government bans him from leaving Armenia, blocking his attendance at an overseas church assembly.
- Rights advocates raise alarms over state interference in church autonomy and religious liberty.
Armenian prosecutors have opened a criminal case against His Holiness Karekin II, leading the Armenian Apostolic Church during intensifying friction with authorities. He is now barred from traveling abroad, preventing his participation in a church assembly in Austria.
Religious freedom groups warn these moves undermine the independence of one of the world’s oldest Christian communities.
“This prohibition results from a grave violation of the Constitution and of the ECHR, in particular the State’s obligation not to interfere with the autonomy of religious organizations,” the Armenian Center for Political Rights stated.
Critics draw attention to a pattern of targeting church leaders, including previous prosecutions of bishops and archbishops, for maintaining biblical conviction and church authority.
With important elections approaching, Christian leaders call out what they see as government attempts to suppress religious expression and influence, which threatens the spiritual fabric of Armenia—long celebrated as the world’s first Christian nation.
Faithful believers are called to pray for true liberty to worship and for steadfast Christians standing firm in truth and principle.
Faith Facts
- Lent is an ancient Christian tradition initiated by the early Church, not directly prescribed in Scripture.
- This season offers believers a time to pause, reflect, and align their lives with God’s promises.
- Embracing Lent can lead to spiritual renewal and a deeper understanding of Christ’s sacrifice.
Many misunderstand Lent, believing it to be dreary or legalistic, yet it can powerfully refocus our hearts on God’s hope for the future. When Christians set aside distractions, they find clarity and renewal rooted in faith rather than empty ritual.
Scripture does not mention Lent directly, but the tradition traces to the early Church’s desire for intentional preparation before Easter. The Nicene Council recognized Lent as a season to help believers reorient their lives toward Christ.
“Reflecting on Jesus’ resurrection gives us perspective.”
This season is not only for the overly religious; throughout history, cultures have realized the value in stepping back from abundance to enrich relationships and self-knowledge. Christians use Lent to reset priorities, focusing fully on God’s purpose and the example of Christ.
Lent is often seen as a practice for those with free time, but even in ancient times, Christians dedicated themselves to prayer amid challenges. Today, in a world overwhelmed by busyness, setting aside time for prayer and reflection becomes even more essential.
Some feel Lent is a tough ordeal, linking it to Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness, but the goal is spiritual decluttering rather than hardship. Believers are invited to examine habits, learn restraint, and make space for God’s presence in daily life.
“Lent has fallen victim to profound misunderstanding by those both inside and outside of the Church.”
Though this season lasts just 40 days, its lessons can shape a life rooted in Christ’s hope, compassion, and justice. By contemplating Christ’s death and resurrection, believers are reminded that God’s love prevails over all injustice and sorrow.
Lent should be welcomed as a gift—time to slow down, reflect deeply, and realign life with what truly matters in God’s eyes. Those who embrace this season discover a journey toward renewal and lasting transformation.
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