Sometimes God's kindness looks like not getting what we really want in life.
Real, painful loss. It's ok to grieve that.
At the same time, it's the mysterious hope of how the Lord deepens our affections for him.
The real prosperity gospel.
Even as I trust God's providence, suffering has formed me as a pastor. To remind those hurting that the Lord:
Sees you like Hagar
Hears you like Hannah
Protects you like Rahab
Provides for you like Ruth
Grieves with you like Mary
Leadership forged in the dark
Loud things clamor for our attention but be attentive to the One who often speaks through soft whispers
(1 Kings 19)
Even if situations don't seem to warrant it.
Even amid deep disappointment.
Even if we don't feel like it.
Choosing to gather with others in corporate worship is an act of holy rebellion.
Unhealthy guilt and shame can make it feel like a struggle to enjoy good things in your life. Almost like you don't deserve to.
Trust the kindness of the Father who delights in blessing his children with good gifts (James 1:17).
Savor the good things. Give God thankful praise.
Committed to roughing it in the great outdoors
Join us for this free online event happening September 10. You can find more info and register at faithandfeelings.com.
What is prayer but the promise pleaded?
- Spurgeon
It's helpful to remember that it's an amazing demonstration of faith for some to do what may come naturally to you.
Be kind. Be patient.
My response to disappointment often gives a more real glimpse into my theology than the books on my shelf do
A joyful honor to close out this joint Vietnamese churches retreat
Sweet time making memories in Maine with the crew
Peacemaking isn't the same as conflict avoiding
On the treadmill at the gym and glance at Young and the Restless on the TV with funny memories watching when I was in coll
HOW IS VICTOR NEWMAN STILL ON THAT SHOW!!!
Sadness is neither a sign of laziness nor a sin; neither negative thinking or weakness. On the contrary, when we find ourselves impatient with sadness, we reveal our preference for folly, our resistance to wisdom, and our disregard for depth and proportion. - Zack Eswine
"Jesus is our hope" and "Address systemic injustice with systemic remedies" don't have to be adversarial statements
I've come to really savor this family rhythm where we take each of our kids on short getaways. Amid busy lives, setting aside intentional space to be together, doing our best to be present in these years that fly by.
We praise God.
Not just because we've had a great week full of blessings that fuel a desire for his presence with hands fully raised. Sometimes our praise is found in the very absence of those things. Hands hanging at our side.
Expressing trust that God is more faithful than we are faithless.
Law & order is not the same as justice.
Law & order can be used to further an agenda, oppress a group, advantage others, and protect corruption.
Justice is to insure that all wrongs are addressed with repair and restoration.
They may coincide, but they are not the same.⚖️
"How long" is such a powerful cry to God in the bible.
So much of this journey is spent waiting on God in patience, faith, and hope.
Learning to trust in the one who hears the cries of our restless souls.
God doesn't get tired of you
Some days my mind goes from
Here's an idea that will change the world
to
Man I can't even find the string to hang up my loofah
Good character doesn't mean you're perfect or never make mistakes or commit sin. Character shows up in how you respond. The humility to not make excuses and deflect blame onto others. Receiving grace to own your wrongs while committing to what it takes to be better.
Some areas of sin get much more cultural attention but the Scriptures show us that the Lord really abhors pride
