Cynicism is the new rock n roll. It tells the world: ‘I’ve been around the block a few times, I won’t be taken in, I’m savvy, street smart and most of all, experienced.’ It seems wise – but it’s completely anti-gospel. In Jesus, I’m called to the very opposite: faith, hope and love. Faith means embracing what cannot be humanly learned. It means receiving what cannot be humanly earned. I’m called to trust when the world, the flesh and the …Read More
How do you feel when times are tough? Like a tiny cork, bobbing on the waves? Alone and overwhelmed? Outnumbered and defeated? Don’t judge by what you see. In 2 Kings 6, the people of God seem to be outflanked and outnumbered by their enemies. Elisha’s servant runs in terror to his master and says, “Oh no, my lord! What shall we do?” “Don’t be afraid,” the prophet answers, “those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Notice what …Read More
Having faith’ doesn’t mean going it alone. Yes, you need prayer, community and the bible. But you can also use medication, counselling and therapy. If we can use doctors for our bodies, we can use doctors for our brains. When Saul was stressed, David played him soothing music. When Elijah was close to breakdown, God told him to sleep and eat. So let’s not be ashamed of using the resources we have been given. It’s not true that if …Read More
Acknowledge your feelings but remind them that you’re in charge. Think of them as a two year-old who needs reassurance and a bit of loving firmness. Remember, you have felt like this before; and it was all ok. If in doubt, stick to your usual plan/routine. (The one you made before your brain was flooded with adrenalin). But Don’t try to do too much. It’s tempting to over schedule when you’re stressed, but you need downtime too. Work out …Read More
Years ago, I remember praying with Glen. (We have prayed together since then but this one stands out). We were relatively new Christians and and he said something like, ‘Lord if suffering will bring us closer to you, then let your will be done’. ‘What?’ I hissed – ‘Are you asking for suffering?’ ‘Not exactly,’ he began… Elbowing him, I cleared my throat and in my prayer voice (louder), continued, “Sorry Lord, can we stop right there. I would like …Read More
I love this post from Glen… The frown, the pout, the head cocked, the bottom lip thrust out… who teaches toddlers how to sulk? It’s not a look we’ve tried to inculcate. It must be some kind of primeval muscle memory. Down the generations, identical whinges have emerged from three year olds, like secret lemon juice messages becoming visible under the iron. Children are marked with the sulking signature. When the heat is on, out it comes. Sometimes, if it’s …Read More
Go with your heart. And follow your feelings. Keep it in. If you open up, they will reject you. Deal with it yourself. So, take control. For every look at Jesus, take 12 looks at yourself. Don’t hope and don’t try. You’ll fail and you’ll be disappointed. Live by the word ‘should.’ Everything is black or white. Good or bad. Success or failure. Put yourself first. Earn it. Do everything perfectly. You are worthless if you don’t. Stay away from …Read More
I know it in my head. The bible tells me. My church preaches it. I sing about it. I even tell myself. I’m loved by God – but I don’t always feel it. And if I don’t feel it, then what’s the point? There are plenty of alternatives. I down a coffee and can take on the world. I buy toys for my daughter and instantly feel better. I press ‘play’ and the real world disappears. I hit ‘send’ and …Read More
Dear 13 year-old me. First, the good news. There is an adult you and she’s doing ok. You will survive your exams. You live in a world without social media. In a few years, you won’t care so much about what everyone else thinks about you – but there’s some work for God to do first. You have a daughter AND a lovely husband. (NB: when the ‘love of your life’ dumps you, don’t panic. He’s not the One). You …Read More
“I hate myself.” “I have no hope. I have no future.” “I’m so ashamed.” “I don’t belong in church.” “Why did He make me like this?” “I have/have had problems with my mental health.” “I feel my weakness.” “I don’t quite fit.” “I believe the gospel but I don’t feel it.” “I’m afraid.” If you feel these things, then know that Jesus is for you. You are not beyond the pale, or outside of the camp. In your weakness …Read More
