Michael Poorman | What Happens When God Doesn't Take It Away?

What happens when a successful church leader suddenly finds himself overwhelmed by anxiety and intrusive thoughts? Michael Poorman, Executive Pastor of Mission Point Community Church, takes us on a powerful journey through his unexpected mental health crisis and the transformative lessons he learned in the darkness.

Michael's story begins like many ministry leaders - steadily taking on more responsibilities, saying yes to every opportunity, and building a reputation as someone who could handle it all. But when a perfect storm of circumstances hit - including the loss of his mother-in-law in a car accident during COVID and the accumulation of professional responsibilities - he found himself facing debilitating anxiety that he couldn't control through willpower alone.

With remarkable vulnerability, Michael shares how this crucible experience forced him to develop new spiritual practices that became lifelines. From praying the Lord's Prayer during moments of overwhelming anxiety to creating what he calls a "trench of truth" to combat intrusive thoughts, his journey reveals practical tools for anyone facing mental health challenges. Most powerfully, he explains how professional counseling and medication became part of God's provision for healing, helping him overcome the shame often associated with mental health treatment.

The transformation that emerged from Michael's suffering has rippled outward, enabling him to minister to others with newfound compassion. His "rule of life" now prioritizes slowness, rest, and intentional connection with God - disciplines that fuel sustainable leadership rather than the burnout-inducing pace he once maintained. For anyone currently walking through their own crucible experience, Michael's story offers both practical wisdom and the hope that God truly does refine us through fire, shaping us into leaders whose dependence on Him becomes their greatest strength.

Leaders on Fire
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