It’s coming up to that time of year where I stand in front of my church and overshare about my own struggles: “I have been going to a Bible study for the last forty years because without it I would be insane.” Those who know me well nod their heads. When I was twenty-five, the Lord picked me up, turned me around, and set my feet on his solid ground. I had a long seven-year odyssey away from faith...
Is faster always better? Obviously, no. But that truth only tells us that patience is sometimes a virtue. It doesn’t help us sort out when slower might be better. Consider these two lists: List One: Life challenges when efficiency in change is best (fast is better). List Two: Life challenges when patience in change is best (slower is better). What would you put on each list? Here are some...
As we face trials of various kinds in this world, Scripture gives us a wealth of reassurance, helping us understand both God’s general purposes in our suffering, as some specific truths we can hold onto when we don’t understand what’s going on. James tells us that we should consider it pure joy whenever we face trials of any kind, because trials are essential to our growth in Christ. Without...
I’m a big U2 fan. I’ve followed the band for years and have been to many concerts, singing out from the front row with all the other exuberant fans. Once I even got to meet Bono, the band’s lead singer. It was a quick interaction that entailed a signature on my sweatshirt and an “Enjoy the show,” with that unmistakable Northern Irish accent. Afterward, I told my husband I wished I had more...
Many of us have this deep-down feeling: “If they only knew who I really am inside, then they wouldn’t accept me.” So often our lives feel like a performance in front of an audience that can’t handle flaws in others. This sense is only amplified in ministry leaders like pastors, elders, deacons, and teachers, whose lives and work are constantly on display. Impostor syndrome can take root in church...
