Is unconditional forgiveness toward those who have harmed us the best way to get the anger out of our stomach? Does forgiving those who have not had a change of heart reflect well on Christ, show his love, and enable us to forgive others as God has forgiven us? These are some of the questions […]
Is there one discovery about the Bible that can help us respond to the challenge of dangerous religious groups, encourage the growth of young believers, and throw light on our personal blind sides? Over the years I’ve come to believe that the one insight that speaks to all of these areas is that: All truth […]
If I had one chance to give one insight that has helped me better understand the Bible, I think I know what it would be. I would not emphasize that the Bible is the inspired word of God. Nor would I use my one opportunity to emphasize the importance of studying grammar, or the differences […]
Something has gone wrong with forgiveness. As wrong and as self-destructive as a bitter, vengeful spirit is, isn’t there something missing when we say, I need to forgive to get the anger out of my own stomach? Is it really Christ-like to say that we need to unconditionally forgive others so that we can get […]
“I can’t forget what happened. I don’t trust you anymore, and I don’t think I could ever trust you again.” Those words are like a trump card. Whoever uses them wins the hand (assuring mutual defeat) by acknowledging a loss of hope. It doesn’t matter what cards the other player is holding. Mutual trust is […]
In many counselors there is safety. Proverbs 11:14 No pastor, troubled individual, or family should have to bear alone the overload of mental illness. I recently got an e-mail that captures the kind of problems that are so often misunderstood. This person wrote, “Raised in a strict Christian home, my first bout with depression in […]
How can anyone determine whether mental and emotional problems are rooted in spiritual or physical causes? In many counselors there is safety. Proverbs 11:14 When pastors are called upon in such crises, they can feel overwhelmed. Many realize their limitations, but feel compelled by their congregations or other leaders to act as if the Bible, […]
I appreciate those who are responding to my last post with their own honest questions about, or experience with, mental health issues. Before continuing with the second of three parts on this subject, I want to give you some of the backstory to my own interest. In a December, 06 article I wrote, “Soon after […]
I’d like to have a conversation with you about the way followers of Christ relate to issues of mental health. Few issues create more burdens for countless individuals and families. Few problems cause more misunderstanding, or isolation than emotional and mental problems that do not go away in the face of faith and prayer… Long […]
If this is your first time to the blog, Welcome! Got just a minute? Look a around! As you’ll see, there’s a lot to consider together. If you’re short on time now, please bookmark this page and come back when you have more time. I’d love to have a chance to think together about things […]
