Guest post from Glen What is life: tragedy or comedy? I’m not asking whether life is a barrel of laughs (newsflash: it’s not!), I’m asking a more technical question. In literature, comedy and tragedy are not about the laughs-to-calamities ratio, it’s about the shape of the story. In particular it’s about the ending. A tragedy is shaped like a frown: it travels up to the heights then tumbles down to the depths. A comedy is a smile: down into danger …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
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
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
“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
But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 What does it mean to wait for the Lord? waiting expectantly – trusting that we’re not treading water, or wasting time. God hasn’t forgotten about us. He hears; and this waiting is part of His answer focusing on His faithfulness in the past. Looking to His …Read More
Loneliness It’s the first thing that God says is ‘Not good….’ and this is before the Fall. Picture it. Adam is in paradise and God has made him king of the world. He has meaningful work to do, the entire animal kingdom to oversee, a world to explore and the Lord to walk with. From the world’s eyes, Adam has it all – yet God looks and says “Not good.” Why? Because the Three-in-One God made us to depend on others. Even …Read More
Joshua 23:11: “Be very careful to love the LORD your God.” tell Him what you love about Him make a point of saying thank-you for the big and little things you take for granted sit in silence together keep talking. Before you go to anyone else, tell Him listen – really listen – to Him. (Don’t assume, limit or caricature Him). remind yourself of why you first fell in love share a good book. eat together. spend time with …Read More
Forget January 1st. For the Christian, every day, every moment is a brand new start. It’s a new start that’s the opposite of all the others. Not, ‘I must change if I want to be loved’. Turn it around. ‘I am already loved. The new is now.’ It’s not that you don’t feel scared. Or sad. Or angry or lonely or anxious. You can still feel these things and more; but God in you is greater. And here’s something wonderful: …Read More
Joint post from me and Glen… There are many things the Lord’s prayer reminds us about God. He is our Father. He reigns supreme. His goodness and beauty are unparalleled. He is bringing his wonderful reign to earth. He is a kind and consistent provider. He is full of mercy and compassion. He longs to direct me into freedom and fullness. These are massive truths to grasp and hang onto. But let’s look at the other side of the relationship. …Read More
