Looking for words of encouragement, I typed the word “comfort” in a Bible program on my computer. In seconds, there were over 60 verses. I clicked print and received five pages of comforting scripture. At a Bible study, I handed each person a copy and asked them to pick a favorite verse and tell how they received comfort in the midst of crisis.
Despair following success can impact anyone: entertainers, athletes, preachers and teachers. A surge of success followed by a period of despondency and anguish. Why? It doesn’t make sense… or does it. Are successes always followed by bouts of despair? Of course not, yet it happens frequently enough to ask questions and seek guidance.
There are many people like Sandi Patty: sincere about their belief in God but wondering if they could ever attend worship services again. Would they be welcomed back with open arms?
A critical part of reconciliation is a willingness to honestly communicate your feelings but with humility and love. It’s important to set aside your ego and be ready to listen to the other person’s perspective. Understanding both sides can prevent future misunderstandings.
One day, I was hit with difficulties that left me feeling anxious and concerned. That night, unable to sleep, I started praying and searching through Scripture. I even searched Google for prayers about anxiousness. In the process I discovered a devotion with this scripture from 1 Peter. “Be clear minded Read more…
“We need three strong volunteers,” I said to the congregation for our Sunday children’s message. Hesitantly, (I have a reputation for embarrassing folks.) three men came forward. I placed them side by side and announced: “You are to be a wall. No matter what I say or do, you must Read more…
Dear God, Please: Teach me. Keep me. Hold me. Help me. I want to be better than I was yesterday. Amen. — Christian Today This is a good prayer… for me. But should prayer ever be about me? Shouldn’t I be more concerned about the needs of others? When airline Read more…
I was in and out of churches for many years before becoming more serious about my Christian walk in the 1980’s. During the 45-minute drive to and from work, I listened to Christian teaching tapes and to popular Christian artists to learn more about my faith and deepen my relationship Read more…
Imagine driving to work, minding your own business. Suddenly, someone runs a stop sign and with squealing tires, zips in front of your car, forcing you to slam on the brakes and swerve out of the way. You are a nervous wreck but the jerk in the other car never Read more…
On our first visit, after a few moments, she began to weep. “I’m so sorry.” For the next hour, I heard a sad story of mistakes, misunderstandings and family disagreements. None of them seemed all that serious, but her speech was tortured with words of guilt and hurt. “Will God Read more…