A few years ago, I searched for the word “comfort” in a Bible on my computer. In seconds, there were over 60 verses. I printed five pages of encouraging scripture. At a Bible study, each person was given a copy and asked to pick a favorite verse and tell how they received comfort during crisis.
Now comes the moment of truth. It’s one thing to forgive, even to forget. The breakfast and kindness are proof. Up to this point we would have an interesting story of two friends who quarreled and made up: Interesting, but hardly life changing.
I wanted to be the perfect pastor, the perfect Christian, the perfect husband and father and so on. I was frankly more car salesman than preacher: I could be arrogant, cocky and a little difficult to live with. A pastor was someone on a pedestal, and I intended to be worthy of the highest pedestal of all.
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…