They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him. -Psalm 126:5-6, KJV I recall listening to a sermon by Pastor Bill Johnson about this word picture. He explained the idea as one going hungry and … Continue reading “Tears As Seeds”
Category: Encouragement
“Disappointing The Ultimate Authority” Handle
When my divorce was going through against my will (at the time), I experienced heightened spiritual distress. This was distress over disappointing the Ultimate Authority–i.e. God. Cognitively, I understood that I had no power to stop the divorce. My best friend spoke the truth to me earlier in September when he called out that … Continue reading ““Disappointing The Ultimate Authority” Handle”
Hope In God
“You Uphold” by Clay Edwards This song ministered to my heart during some of my darkest times. It was especially encouraging for me as I was trying to get my feet back on solid ground–i.e. career-wise in particular. It helped to remember God’s perspective on my destiny is not a natural or human perspective. I … Continue reading “Hope In God”
It is okay to “fire” your pastor.
And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to see if Paul and Silas were teaching the truth. -Acts 17:11, NLT Maybe you are like me and find it difficult to say no to an authority figure? … Continue reading “It is okay to “fire” your pastor.”
An Anti-Anniversary: Rising From The Ashes
DM in 2012 It’s so hard to believe today marks the three year anniversary of my marriage ending in divorce. I will always remember when I got the official word of this and how awful it felt. I did not feel like celebrating. It was the end of my six year long marriage. However, I … Continue reading “An Anti-Anniversary: Rising From The Ashes”
The Rejected Ones
11 Jesus is “‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.’ 12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved. -Acts 4:11-12, NIV How is Jesus identified by the Apostle Peter on Pentecost? He is The Rejected One. This … Continue reading “The Rejected Ones”
Happy Thanksgiving 2015!
Happy Thanksgiving! I can remember that first Thanksgiving without a spouse in the picture. It was rough. But I still had things for which to thank God. He had moved so that I had a job and was just starting to get my footing in the career I love–i.e. professional chaplaincy. I had wonderful parents, … Continue reading “Happy Thanksgiving 2015!”
Does Your Soul Feel Downcast?
Psalms are beautiful expressions of the heart. I love this Psalm and suspect many can relate to the Psalmist’s words. Have you ever struggled with feeling downcast? This is a Psalm for you… Psalm 42* 1As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. 2 My soul thirsteth for … Continue reading “Does Your Soul Feel Downcast?”
There are some “wins” in store for you!
As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so … Continue reading “There are some “wins” in store for you!”
How To Cultivate Happiness
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. -1 Thessalonians 5:18, KJV Who knew that being thankful is good for one’s soul? Apparently, God did! 🙂 What do you give thanks to God for? I am thankful for good health. Thankful for my parents who … Continue reading “How To Cultivate Happiness”