Nine key struggles that hinder our lives according to scripture and science …

Why do Christians struggle so deeply? Why do we wrestle with conflict, loneliness, and suffering even when we have faith?

The Bible is clear: humanity was designed to live in harmony with God, to thrive in relationship with Him and each other. Yet, as Genesis records, sin entered the world, and with it came separation, sorrow, and a continual struggle with self and others. We were created to walk with God, but apart from Him, we are spiritually dead, lost in a world filled with sin, suffering, and hopelessness.

Here are nine areas where people often struggle — and where scripture and scientific insights align to show how God’s Word leads to healing and freedom. Understanding these roots of difficulty can guide us toward lasting peace.

1. Unresolved Sin and Moral Conflict.
The Bible emphasizes that sin creates a spiritual death within us, a separation from God that affects every aspect of life. As Paul writes in Romans 6:23, “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.” Sin enslaves and burdens us, causing guilt, shame, and inner turmoil. Proverbs 5:22 illustrates this vividly: “An evil man is held captive by his own sins; they are ropes that catch and hold him.”

In counseling, unresolved guilt and shame are shown to deeply impact mental health, correlating with anxiety, depression, and often physical ailments like hypertension. True peace comes from confessing sin, receiving God’s forgiveness, and finding freedom in Christ. As 1 John 1:9 promises, “But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.”

2. Spiritual Malnourishment and Lack of Connection to God.
Jesus emphasizes the necessity of abiding in Him: “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing,” John 15:5. Our relationship with God is not optional; it is foundational. Spiritual malnourishment leads to a life that feels empty, anxious, and lost.

Psychological research supports the benefits of spiritual practices for emotional health, demonstrating that regular prayer, meditation, and worship reduce stress and enhance resilience. Spiritual well-being, therefore, is not an extra, it’s the very core of a life well-lived.

3. Cognitive Distortions and Negative Thought Patterns.
Thoughts create emotions, and that combination shapes behavior and life outcomes. Paul’s instruction in Romans 12:2 is foundational here: “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” The Bible teaches us that our minds need transformation, and research into Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) echoes this truth.

People can fall into patterns like “all-or-nothing” thinking or catastrophizing, which fuel anxiety, depression, and relational strain. Renewing the mind requires aligning our thoughts with God’s truth, helping us reject falsehoods and embrace the reality of who we are in Christ.

4. Lack of Purpose or Vision.
Proverbs reveals a profound truth about the importance of purpose: “When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild. But whoever obeys the law is joyful,” Proverbs 29:18. Without a clear sense of purpose, individuals often feel adrift, lacking motivation and resilience. Studies show that people who have a defined purpose are more satisfied, handle adversity better, and are at lower risk for mental and physical ailments.

Purpose, as given by God, not only shapes our choices but offers strength and direction in every season of life. It’s more than ambition; it’s an alignment with God’s design.

5. Unforgiveness and Resentment.
Unforgiveness is a spiritual poison that affects both the soul and body. As Ephesians 4:31-32 teaches, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.” Forgiveness isn’t only a biblical command; it’s a gateway to emotional freedom and health.

Medical research aligns with this truth, showing that chronic resentment increases stress and risk for cardiovascular diseases. People who practice forgiveness report lower levels of depression and anxiety, proving that God’s call to forgive is both spiritually and physically restorative.

6. Poor Relationships and Social Isolation.
From the beginning, God made it clear that we are not meant to live in isolation. Genesis 2:18 states, “Then the Lord God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper that is just right for him.'” Relationships bring joy, support, and accountability, while isolation leaves us vulnerable to negative mental and physical health outcomes. Social isolation has been found to significantly increase risks of cognitive decline, depression, and early death.

God’s design for fellowship provides us with strength, companionship, and joy. Healthy relationships, fostered through forgiveness, grace, and mutual respect, are a vital part of living well.

7. Unmanaged Stress and Burnout.
Jesus’ invitation to find rest speaks to the weariness so many people feel: “Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light,’” Matthew 11:28-30.

Chronic stress, however, takes a toll on both mind and body. Modern research indicates that prolonged stress can lead to immune dysfunction, heart disease, and burnout. God’s invitation to rest is not merely a comfort; it is essential for health, guiding us to seek restoration and balance in Him.

8. Maladaptive Habits and Lack of Discipline.
Scripture warns about the dangers of a life without self-control: “A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls,” Proverbs 25:28. Habits, whether good or bad, become pathways in the brain that make behaviors automatic. Negative habits lead to chaos, while positive, disciplined habits bring stability and peace.

Science confirms that building healthy habits — such as regular exercise, spiritual routines, and appropriate self-care — contributes to resilience and lowers stress. The Bible’s guidance on self-discipline equips us to avoid pitfalls and live purposeful lives that honor God.

9. Poor Physical Health and Neglect of the Body.
The Bible teaches that our bodies are God’s temple. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 states, “Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body.” When we neglect physical health, we neglect God’s gift and often suffer physical and emotional consequences.

Research links poor physical health with increased mental distress, showing that regular exercise and a healthy diet positively impact mood, energy, and resilience. Honoring God with our bodies promotes a holistic sense of well-being.

Through these nine areas, we see that our deepest struggles are often rooted in spiritual needs as much as physical or mental ones. God’s Word provides a roadmap for healing and freedom, not just in theory but through practical steps we can take every day. By turning to Him, examining our lives, and aligning with His Word, we can find a peace that surpasses understanding — a peace that integrates our whole being, mind, body, and spirit, into a life that flourishes as God intended.

Scotty