Mental Moses: When a Leader’s Mental Health Struggles

The Taboo of Mental Health in Ministry

Mental health is something that is receiving more attention, but it is still felt to be somewhat taboo. I believe we can learn a lot from Scripture about mental health. It seems there are several people in the Bible who, if they lived in our time, would have had mental health issues.

While the time is different, the issues are the same. I want to take some time to look at the life of Moses and the things he dealt with to become the man God called him to be.

A Life Shaped by Trauma and Isolation

Moses was born in a time when forced abortion was the norm. Pharaoh was afraid that the Jews would one day rise against Egypt, so he decreed that all male babies would be put to death. Jochebed, Moses’s mother, gave birth in secret and hid him in the house for three months before placing him in a basket on the water; This meant there would be very few, if any, Hebrew boys his age.

There is a condition called “survivor syndrome” or “survivor's guilt.” I wonder if Moses dealt with this? Scripture tells us his birth mother became his nurse. He was taught the ways of the Hebrews, even while living in Pharaoh’s house.

This arrangement would lead to what we call today an “identity crisis.” That identity crisis caused him to kill a taskmaster because he saw him beating a Hebrew. The chain of events that followed would ultimately lead Moses to become the deliverer of Israel.

The Weight of an Identity Crisis

When Moses fled to the wilderness of Midian, he was called an Egyptian because of what he was wearing. Too many times, people wrestle with an identity crisis. It happens both inside and outside the church. Let me be candid—church hurt often happens when we don’t handle identity crises correctly.

Instead of understanding and helping others walk through this kind of crisis, we often condemn and expect them just to figure it out. There are even those who will say that prayer is all you need. I do believe that if prayer is all you have, it is enough. But I would simply ask—if you have resources available to you, why not use them?

I understand God had a plan for Moses, but I also wonder what might’ve happened if Moses had someone to talk to. Maybe he wouldn’t have been so insecure when God called him.

When God Calls, Struggles Surface

When God called Moses in Exodus chapters 3 and 4, Moses made excuses. That’s how I’ve always preached it. But let me say it differently: Moses voiced his struggles to God.

He told God to choose someone else and gave all the reasons he felt unqualified. At some point, if you’re going to heal, you will have to address the issues. Moses would become a great leader—but it started with a conversation at a burning bush.

This is why we need someone to talk to. We need someone who can help us walk through our insecurities. Someone who can lead us past our struggles. If someone needs to voice their struggles, be the person who lets them.

Don’t tell them the struggle isn’t real. You can speak life and truth into them, but don’t try to convince them they’re not hurting. Because of Moses’ struggle, God sent Aaron with him. That’s important. God gave Moses someone to support him.

We Are Not Meant to Do Life Alone

This is a topic for another time, but throughout Scripture, we see people working together. Moses had Aaron and later Joshua. The prophets had apprentices and schools of prophets. Jesus sent the 70 out in pairs.

You were never meant to be a “Lone Ranger.”

From the very beginning in the Garden of Eden, God said, “It’s not good for man to be alone.” He created Eve to help Adam. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You might be surprised who will step up if you simply express what you need.

In Moses’ case, God Himself suggested Aaron. He told Moses to take Aaron with him. Everyone needs someone. There is no shame in asking for help. Find a community that will support you. Relationships are essential when it comes to mental health. Friends, family, and community can and will provide support during challenging times. Lean on those around you. It will make a tremendous difference.

Trust God’s Plan—Even When You Struggle

The last thing I’d like to say is: Don’t be afraid to trust God’s plan.

Moses gave every excuse he could think of not to do what God asked. I won’t pretend it will be easy. We all face difficulties. But God will be with you. Don’t let anything—or anyone—talk you out of that truth.

Although the road was difficult, God was with Moses every step of the way. Trust God’s plan. Let Him lead you. It can be argued that even with his issues, Moses was a great leader. God chose Moses to be the first leader of Israel—in spite of the things he struggled with.

If You’re Struggling Like Moses, Here’s a Plan:

1.     Accept who God made you—even with your struggles. Don’t let your identity crisis destroy you.

2.     Voice your struggles. Find someone you can talk to. God can handle what you tell Him. It’s also wise to find a coach, counselor, or therapist if you need one.

3.     Find those who will support you. Friends, family, and a healthy church community are essential.

4.     Trust God’s plan. Even when it’s hard to understand, He has one.

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.”

— Proverbs 3:5–6 (KJV)

You’ve got this.

There are people around you who want to help. Don’t be afraid to ask. God is for you and will never leave you alone. Be like Moses—and be a leader who changes your world.

About the Author

Rev. David McCool has been immersed in ministry his entire life. Born into a preacher’s home, he carries a lifelong passion for serving God’s people. In 2003, David, his wife Kris, and their three children founded Life Church of Roseville. Just three years later, they answered the call to pastor their home church—Apostolic Faith Tabernacle in Ferndale, Michigan.

While shepherding two growing congregations, David has remained deeply invested in Children’s Ministry for nearly two decades, serving in various leadership roles, including district director. He is also an educator, currently working as an Achievement Behavior Support Specialist for early elementary students.

In December 2024, David published his first book, Psalms: Devotions with David—a heartfelt devotional that blends Scripture, reflection, and real-life wisdom.

David treasures his greatest titles of all: husband to Kris, father to three incredible adult children, and “Poppi” to four amazing grandchildren.

Purchase his book here:

Psalms: Devotions with David – Available on Amazon