The human soul transcends earthly value

Q: Our friends have two teenagers with severe behavioral problems and claim that it is due to mental illness, but neither child has been diagnosed with any particular disorder. Having been close with this family through the years, the problem to me seems simple—the parents don’t discipline them and lets them have their own way. Doesn’t this seem dangerous that their children will never be able to appropriately assimilate into society?

A: Mental illness is a general term used to cover a wide range of psycho-neurological disorders. There are those who are truly ill, suffering some type of malfunction due to a brain injury, an inherited illness, or a glandular or chemical imbalance. Such cases should be referred to appropriate trained professionals.

However, many behaviors often classified as mental illness are simply the result of unresolved sinful attitudes or conduct. Those affected may display the symptoms of illness, but many times these symptoms are spiritual. In the case of children, it is the parents’ duty to bring a child up in the fear and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). In the case of non-Christian moms and dads, we need to pray that God will open their hearts to His truth. This is where trusted family members, a local church and godly neighbors and friends can help.

There are always sensitivities in this area because most parents believe their children to be “good” while they are young and are often shocked to find rebellious attitudes when they are older. Prayer is the key to relationships. When problems present themselves, immediately take them to the Lord in prayer with thanksgiving that we might have the opportunity to impart the Word of God as a help and encouragement to those around us.

Q: Is it wrong for me to long for Heaven in order to escape the disappointments of this life?

A: Heaven will be a place in which its inhabitants will be freed from the fears, insecurities and disappointments that plague us in the present life. We will be free from financial pressures that burden us down here; free from the fear of personal harm. There will be no fear of personal failure. Our relationship with God will be intimate and direct.

It pleases God that His children would long for His heavenly home that He is preparing for us; not as a place of escape, but as a place where we will enjoy His presence forever.

But we mustn’t shirk our responsibilities in this life. God intends for us to live full lives and to be engaged with others. We do not have to look far to find those who are more disappointed than we are or perhaps in worse health. Life is not about us; it is about learning to get along with our fellow man and most of all, life is about what we decide concerning the Lord Jesus Christ. A true Christian spirit desires to spend eternity with God in Heaven and wants to tell as many people about this great hope so that others can also enjoy the rewards of Heaven and the glory of God Himself. Until then, be faithful to proclaim this great message.

There is a song that says, “But until then my heart will go on singing, until then with joy I’ll carry on, until the day my eyes behold that city, until the day God calls me home.”

“Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit” (Romans 5:5).