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A spiritual comment and prayer to start the day with writer and blogger on mental health issues and faith, Emma Scrivener.

Good morning.

I recently read a newspaper article claiming that three in four mental illnesses start in childhood . This was my experience. I was just thirteen when I developed anorexia; and it almost killed me. Recovery has been a long process, but it started when I realised that I didn’t need to be perfect. Instead, I can come to God, exactly as I am.

As with many other mental health conditions, it’s often a case of two steps forward and one step back. My illness was so serious that there was doubt I would ever recover – let alone have children of my own. My faith has been central to the progress I’ve made but it’s far from a quick fix. I’ve had to learn the truth reflected in the words of my favourite hymn, by Charlotte Elliot. Perhaps you know it:

"Just as I am, though tossed about
with many a conflict, many a doubt,
fightings within and fears without,
O Lamb of God, I come".

My life today is so much better than it might have been – but I’m far from fixed. I still know fightings within and fear without; but I don’t have carry them alone. The hymn describes Jesus as the Lamb of God because, as the great sacrifice, he takes on all our sicknesses and infirmities. I’m a work in progress, but in my weakness, I can come to Him.

Lord God, thank you that we can come to you, just as we are. Please give us courage and strength for whatever battles we may face. In the name of Jesus.

Amen.