Have you ever been told to use the side door, back door, or any entry that is not the normal way? Perhaps there was a surprise party or an event that needed a measure of secrecy. I’ve found that the “side door,” or surprise door as I call it, is…
The valley can be a lonely place, but there is hope in the valley. The valley can be beautiful if you look for it, but it is not a place to stay. She could not stay there anymore because nothing was left to hold on to. The grief, shame, anxiety,…
“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 I’m a firm believer that as humans we can suffer unimaginable hurt, loss and pain. The loss of a loved one, miscarriage, abandonment, rejection, addiction, infidelity,…
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together. (Romans 8:17) Pain and suffering are inevitable. As long as we are alive on this earth we will encounter pain. Most people do…
Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him. John 19:1. This scripture is only 8 words long, but it holds a painful story. Crucifixion was a torturous death, but prior to Jesus being nailed to a cross to atone for your sins (and mine), He suffered agonizing pain by being…
I was worshiping at the altar that Sunday morning when I heard a deep, heartfelt weeping coming from a few rows back. “I have cried exactly like that before,” I thought to myself. “I know that cry comes from a pain deep within the heart.” It made me think of…
How often have you said, “I just wish someone understood me?” This verse reminds us once again that God really does understand what we are going through. Jesus is no stranger to pain and suffering. “He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief:…
“They attacked me at a moment when I was in distress, but the LORD supported me” (Psalm 18:18 in the New Living Translation of the Holy Bible). The strength of a building lies in its framework and foundation. The shell of wood, steel and concrete ensures the integrity and durability…
“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7). I know all about having life completely turn your world upside down. I know the feeling of sheer terror as tragedy strikes and you are left with the remnants of…