A Crisis of the Heart
What’s happening inside us is no longer easy to ignore. Across our communities, signs of mental, emotional and behavioral strain are becoming more visible by the day. We often talk about symptoms and solutions, but far less about the deeper issue beneath it all—the condition of the human heart.
We’ve all been made aware of the current mental, emotional and behavioral health crisis, not only in America but worldwide. In spite of decades of neuroscience research and advances in medical care, millions are still struggling in the grips of behavioral disorders. Recent evidence suggests that metabolic and environmental toxins contribute significantly to these challenges, while an ungodly society continues to erode our well-being.
Thomas Merton, in New Seeds of Contemplation, describes the brokenness of modern humanity as a tendency to construct a false self—layering identity with experiences, pleasures and outward appearances, yet finding emptiness beneath it all. His words echo a deeper truth: The problem is not merely external, but rooted within.
The conflict of the ages has always been waged for the heart of fallen humanity. From the inception of sin, Satan has targeted our emotions, knowing this is the most effective path to control. The Word of God states it plainly: “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he,” Proverbs 23:7.
Do we not think and reason with the brain? Why then does Scripture speak of thinking with the heart? The Hebrew word translated “thinketh” here, shaar, means to estimate or determine, pointing to the deeper inclinations of the heart—the place where choices are truly formed.
In the aftermath of the pandemic, there has been a marked rise in anxiety, depression and ADHD. Yet, even before the pandemic, many severe conditions—such as autism, bipolar disorder and suicide—had already been increasing for years. To understand today’s crisis, we must look beyond recent events and examine long-term trends shaping our world.
Scripture foretold such a time, describing a world filled with distress and fear, where “People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world,” Luke 21:26. While many point to expanded mental and emotional health care as the solution, the deeper need is for restored connection with the Creator—who made us, knows us fully and alone offers the peace that passes all understanding.
The earlier and more consistently this connection is formed, the more individuals are drawn into the life found in Christ, the desire of ages and the hope for humanity. As we consider our calling, we are reminded that we have been placed in this world to carry forward His work. As Ellen G. White emphasized, Christ’s life was filled with a message of love, and every believer is called to reflect that same grace, humility, truth and love.
The Lord of the harvest is waiting for a willing response from His people to reach those around us with the atmosphere of heaven. In a world marked by fear and brokenness, we are called to reveal that love, hope and joy are still possible. Because He lives, we can live fully—and share that life with others as we go.
By Carlos J. Craig, Southwestern Union President
