Tag: suffering

It’s For Your Own Good – Scripture Dissection

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It's For Your Own Good - Scripture Dissection
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I don’t know about you, but the words – “It’s for your own good” – conjure up numerous memories. Think back to your childhood. Surely, you had adults and various others who had influence in your life . . . and said – “it’s for your own good.” Chances are, most of those folks were trying to cast a purposeful vision forward into your life. Plus – don’t you sometimes say the same thing now as you attempt to influence someone you care about? Whether or not you do – God does. In case you didn’t know, that phrase – “for your own good.” – is straight out of Scripture.

Now, let’s explore exactly “what” is supposed to be for your own good.

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Unsure About Boundaries?

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Unsure About Boundaries?
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There are lots of resources about boundaries. Equally, there’s lots of confusion about that topic. I’ve heard many opinions about setting boundaries. Some are helpful. Others are uninformed. A few are arrogant. And some are rather judgmental. Basically, it seems many folks are unsure about boundaries.

So, is “boundaries” just another “buzz” word? What does God think about boundaries? And why would you set boundaries in your life?

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When God Weeps – Scripture Dissection

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When God Weeps - Scripture Dissection
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Have you ever wondered if God cries? Well, He does. In fact, God weeps! I suppose most people don’t think about it. Nevertheless, it likely happens more often than you or I can imagine. When God weeps, He connects with you and me. Actually, that’s quite comforting. Plus, it gives permission to you to weep when your life overflows with disappointment.

What does God weep about?

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The Shame Thing – Scripture Dissection

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The Shame Thing - Scripture Dissection
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I remember a funny quote in the movie, “Mulan.” : “Dishonor! Dishonor on your whole family! Dishonor on you, dishonor on your cow . . . ” Do you remember it? Incidentally, this rebuke is spoken by Mushu, a Chinese dragon – Mulan’s companion. Actually, dishonor is something like shame. In fact, dishonor is a strong match for shame according to a thesaurus. You might wonder if I’m going to suggest – – under no circumstances should you allow yourself to experience shame. Not so. Unfortunately, too many people don’t have healthy contrition anymore. Conversely, many people don’t know what to do with undeserved shame. Let’s explore the shame thing.

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Hope For A New Year

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Hope For A New Year
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A New Year is an opportunity to let go of some things, hold onto other things, and reach for new things. That process involves various emotions. Even though a New Year can feel scary, not knowing what’s ahead, it can also be exciting with new opportunities. In some cases, it may be a relief to walk into fresh perspective. Hope for new possibilities begins to rise. Simultaneously, sadness about aging, saying good-byes, accepting losses, or letting go of previous endeavors can be painful. Even knowing there will be difficulties ahead – overall, people embrace hope as one year morphs into another. God gives hope for a New Year.

Let’s explore what this looks like.

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Emmanuel: God With You – Advent Week 4

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Emmanuel: God With You - Advent Week 4
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It’s Christmas week! How can you prepare your heart to receive Emmanuel in fresh new ways during busy Christmas week? In this content, we look at simple action steps to focus on Emmanuel: God With You. Preparing your heart is just as important as all the other preparations. Perhaps even more important.

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Manage Christmas Sadness – Advent Week 3

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Manage Christmas Sadness - Advent Week 3
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You might be surprised to know Christmas sadness is a real thing. It hits when people go through difficulties that stretch into the Christmas season. Or with unexpected bad news. Sometimes, it’s an on-going, unhealthy relationship or life situation. Interestingly, Christmas sadness can sometimes appear though everything is going fine. Unexpectedly, something rises inside you without permission and surprises you. In fact, you may even wonder why it’s there because there’s no identifiable reason.

Whatever the scenario, you are not alone if you experience Christmas sadness.

Subsequently, the kindest thing you can do for yourself is to learn how to manage Christmas sadness.

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Joy of Anticipation – Advent Week 2

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Joy of Anticipation - Advent Week 2
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You know the little kid in the back seat on a long trip? Every 15 minutes, they ask (with a tired sigh) – “Are we there yet?!” That’s the same little cherub, along with a host of other little kids and just as many adults, who asks, “Is it Christmas yet?” The first exclamation – “Are we there yet?” – is more like – “Gosh! How much longer?!” An impatience and a feeling of being confined. The second exclamation – “Is it Christmas yet?” – is more like – “I’m so excited, I can hardly wait.” An expression of the joy of anticipation.

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Thankfulness

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Thanksgiving is a time to practice exceptional character. Why is that? Because thankfulness is one of the noblest character qualities.

Additionally, it’s a time for celebration and fun activities. In this content, we look at both:

  • A thankful heart.
  • Celebration and fun.

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The Latest And Greatest

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The Latest And Greatest
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So, are you an Apple user or an Android user? Regardless, have you noticed what I’ve figured out? As soon as you update your device, you’re made aware of the latest and greatest? New features. Better camera. Faster processing. Greater connectivity.

Technology is a fast-paced industry. Frankly, it affects pretty much everything in our lives. Things would really change if all our technology suddenly stopped working. For example, with an EMP (electromagnetic pulse) or a Geomagnetic storm. Thankfully, that’s not the norm.

Regardless, life is so much more than technology. In fact, I suggest the latest and greatest you can experience in life is found in God. Let’s explore.

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