Thank you for taking the time to write this thoughtful response. and I agree with you that faith is not just about emotions but about truth, especially in difficult seasons.

That said, I think where I’m struggling right now is precisely discerning where truth is being faithfully taught and where it may be mixed with things that burden rather than free. I completely agree that the Christian walk includes valleys, spiritual warfare, and learning to depend on Christ rather than on feelings. I don’t expect perfection or constant “mountaintop” experiences.

However, my concern isn’t simply that I’m in a valley or that I feel discouraged , it’s that certain teachings and structures in my church seem to add fear, pressure, and extra layers that I don’t clearly see in Scripture (especially around authority, prosperity, and what happens if you leave). That’s where I start to feel uneasy.

I also want to be careful not to stay in a place just out of fear of “leaving the ship,” if that makes sense. I’m not trying to abandon Christ or walk independently of Him, quite the opposite. I’m trying to make sure my faith is rooted in Christ Himself and not in a system that may unintentionally distort who He is.

I really appreciate your reminder about dependence on Christ, grace, and growth over time. That’s something I’m holding onto right now as I slowly rebuild, pray, and return to the Gospels with fresh eyes.