Hiding Behind Scripture.

Do you know people who hide behind scripture to avoid looking at themselves?

One of the most challenging issues I encounter in my ministry is the use of religious and spiritual language that is often a cover for facing the deeper wounds of one’s soul.

Sadly, many folks use scripture as a defense to deny what is happening in their hearts. Many people face intense emotional, psychological, and spiritual pain and suffering yet deny it because they “can do all things through Christ who gives them strength.” As long as they can “do all through Christ” they can often avoid looking at the deeper layers of pain and denial in their lives.

Please don’t get me wrong, I too believe that scripture speaks to us and gives us strength and hope. The example I used is one of my favorites. What I am talking about is when one uses scripture as a mechanism to avoid facing his/her real issues. It is used as a shield to deflect reality. This is dangerous and damaging for it speaks to one’s false self and is not allowed to address the core of one’s true self.

Attempting to talk to someone of these folks is like attempting to talk to a cult member. It can be very draining.

Like many other things that helps folks avoid dealing with pain: drugs, alcohol, sex, gambling, eating, exercise, or shopping, some of these folks have to hit absolute bottom before they are willing to begin to look at or explore their issues and addiction to their religious and spiritual beliefs and how they use their beliefs to avoid facing themselves.

Like drugs and other addiction, there is power and control many find in hiding behind scripture. As long as one hides, one thinks he/she is escaping from dealing with the deeper issues of their soul. That is scary… and deeply troubling and sad for one is not being protected by God, but actually is hiding in shame of self from God-- their only true source of healing.