Digital Social Hour: How Faith Transformed My Battle with Anxiety and Depression | Bryce Crawford DSH #1198

Release Date: February 23, 2025

In this compelling episode of Digital Social Hour, host Sean Kelly engages in a deep and heartfelt conversation with guest Bryce Crawford. Bryce shares his transformative journey from battling anxiety and depression to finding solace and purpose through his faith in Jesus Christ. The discussion navigates through personal struggles, theological insights, and the impact of faith on mental health, providing listeners with both inspiration and profound reflections.

1. Addressing Recent Tragedies and Community Support

The episode opens with Bryce expressing his relief and gratitude following the recent wildfires in Malibu. He recounts arriving in Las Vegas just as the fires broke out, highlighting the tragedy that befell his favorite place in Los Angeles.

Bryce Crawford [00:36]: "It's really sad, praise Jesus, that we were able to get out and come and love on some people here in Vegas and just kind of, like, pray for LA and the firefighters and stuff like that."

Sean acknowledges Bryce's compassion and the efforts made to support those affected by the disasters.

2. The Inevitability of Suffering and the Hope of Faith

Bryce delves into the pervasive nature of suffering, emphasizing that it is an inevitable aspect of human existence due to the inherent sinfulness of the world.

Bryce Crawford [02:20]: "There's a lot of suffering, and it's inevitable in this lifetime that suffering exists."

He shares his belief that Jesus provides a unique form of hope and peace that surpasses all understanding, especially during times of hardship.

Bryce Crawford [02:06]: "Jesus has given me what scripture calls a peace that surpasses all understanding."

3. Understanding Sin and the Christian Perspective on Judgment

Bryce offers a theological exploration of sin, describing it not just as individual actions but as a condition of the world that leads to inevitable suffering. He contrasts this with the Christian belief in Jesus Christ's sacrificial role in atoning for sin.

Bryce Crawford [02:25]: "Sin isn't just an action. It's the condition of the world."

He discusses the concept of Judgment Day, emphasizing that true repentance involves both confession and turning away from sinful behaviors.

Bryce Crawford [07:00]: "Repentance is just turning away from that."

4. Personal Testimony: Overcoming Anxiety and Depression Through Faith

One of the most poignant moments in the episode is Bryce's personal testimony about his struggle with anxiety and depression, which began in eighth grade. He recounts a life-changing experience on December 25, 2020, when he decided to end his life but found salvation through an unexpected encounter at a Waffle House.

Bryce Crawford [09:09]: "I had an encounter with Jesus the night I was going to take my life."

This encounter led him to a profound realization of Jesus' unconditional love and His role in transforming Bryce's mental health struggles.

Bryce Crawford [12:49]: "Cried out to Jesus and haven't had anxiety or depression since that day."

5. Engaging with Diverse Communities and Advocating for Faith

Bryce discusses his mission to reach out to various communities, including those often marginalized or misunderstood, such as the LGBTQ+ community and participants in events like Pride parades and Furry Con. He emphasizes the importance of meeting people where they are and offering the message of Jesus' unconditional love.

Bryce Crawford [14:15]: "We just need to meet people where they're at, not excuse their sin, but say, hey, look, God loves you."

He shares his experiences interacting with people of different backgrounds and the mixed reactions he receives, highlighting both positive impacts and resistance.

6. Comparative Religion: Critique of Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism

In a thought-provoking segment, Bryce compares Christianity with other major religions, particularly Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism. He critiques the works-based salvation in Islam and the concept of reincarnation in Buddhism and Hinduism, advocating for the Christian belief in salvation through grace.

Bryce Crawford [28:46]: "My issue with Islam is the works. ... How much is enough? How do you know what is enough?"

He contrasts this with Christianity's emphasis on faith in Jesus Christ as the sole path to salvation, free from the burden of earning it through deeds.

7. Spiritual Warfare: Belief in Demons and the Supernatural

Bryce affirms the existence of demons and their active role in oppressing and possessing individuals. He shares anecdotes from his experiences in Los Angeles, illustrating his belief in spiritual battles that influence human behavior and societal chaos.

Bryce Crawford [35:24]: "Demons are real and they can oppress people and possess people."

He discusses the importance of relying on Jesus to resist these malevolent forces, emphasizing that true spiritual victory is found through faith.

8. Perspectives on Psychics and Spiritual Guidance

The conversation shifts to Bryce's skepticism towards psychics. Drawing from biblical references, he questions the authenticity and intentions behind psychic practices, suggesting that they may be influenced by demonic forces rather than divine guidance.

Bryce Crawford [41:23]: "If I talk to anyone but God, then what am I talking to? It'd be a demon."

He contrasts this with the Christian approach of seeking guidance through prayer and the Holy Spirit, advocating for a reliance on divine over psychic insights.

9. The Power of Forgiveness and Grace

Bryce emphasizes the boundless nature of Jesus' forgiveness, rejecting the notion of "hyper grace" where one might abuse the concept by sinning without repentance. He advocates for sincere repentance that involves genuine confession and a commitment to change.

Bryce Crawford [20:54]: "Hyper grace isn't receiving real forgiveness. ... There's just no forgiveness for that."

He underscores that true forgiveness transforms individuals, enabling them to live out their faith authentically rather than imposing a transactional relationship with God.

10. Conclusion: Embracing Faith for a Fulfilled Life

As the episode wraps up, Bryce shares his conviction that living a life centered on faith in Jesus Christ leads to a more joyful, richer, and fuller existence. He encourages listeners to explore their own beliefs, engage in respectful and open-minded dialogues, and seek a personal relationship with Jesus for transformative growth.

Bryce Crawford [16:50]: "I've found more joy living for Jesus Christ, a fuller, richer life than I have living for myself."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Bryce Crawford [02:06]: "Jesus has given me what scripture calls a peace that surpasses all understanding."

• Bryce Crawford [09:09]: "I had an encounter with Jesus the night I was going to take my life."

• Bryce Crawford [12:49]: "Cried out to Jesus and haven't had anxiety or depression since that day."

• Bryce Crawford [28:46]: "My issue with Islam is the works. ... How much is enough? How do you know what is enough?"

• Bryce Crawford [35:24]: "Demons are real and they can oppress people and possess people."

• Bryce Crawford [41:23]: "If I talk to anyone but God, then what am I talking to? It'd be a demon."

• Bryce Crawford [20:54]: "Hyper grace isn't receiving real forgiveness. ... There's just no forgiveness for that."

• Bryce Crawford [16:50]: "I've found more joy living for Jesus Christ, a fuller, richer life than I have living for myself."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Digital Social Hour serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith in overcoming mental health challenges. Bryce Crawford's candid sharing of his personal struggles and his unwavering belief in Jesus Christ provides a beacon of hope for listeners facing similar battles. The conversation not only delves into deep theological discussions but also offers practical insights on living a faith-driven life amidst adversity.

For those seeking inspiration or grappling with their own sense of hopelessness, this episode is a must-listen, offering both comfort and a roadmap to finding peace through faith.

Connect with Bryce Crawford:

• YouTube, Instagram, TikTok: Search for Bryce Crawford
• Podcast: Bryce Crawford Podcast