In my experience, the times when I have most needed practical help, all I got was a lot of, “I’m sorry you are going through that, I’ll pray for you.” Hearing this response over and over really stings when no one tacks on an additional, “How else can I help?”
Tag Archives: Burdens
For When I Am Weak, Then I Am Strong
Suffering has been a natural part of life since Adam and Eve. We’ve all experienced suffering. Each person’s suffering is unique and affects everyone differently. We can learn from Paul through his letter we call the book of 2 Corinthians.
Finding Joy in Life’s Trials
Joy is not a feeling, but rather a gift from God, given to us through the Holy Spirit. We must become intimate with God to learn how to utilize this gift, even when our life looks bleak.
God’s Gift of Perseverance
Perseverance is a gift from God. We just have to have the right perspective. Let’s take a look into Biblical examples of perseverance, and then think about how God directs us to persevere.
When Life Feels Hopeless, But God…
I woke up in the ICU trapped by tubes and wires coming out of my mouth and limbs. My arms were strapped down to the bed. I couldn’t process what was happening. Someone somewhere had my days old baby. Where was he? I struggled against the straps, but my husband leaned down over me toContinue reading “When Life Feels Hopeless, But God…”
How to “Be of Good Cheer” in the Darkest Days
How would you like it, if in one of your darkest moments, someone sat next to you and said, “Be of good cheer!” Yeah, me too. I think I would give them a look that said, “You’ve got to be kidding me.” I’m having a really hard time and you’re telling me, “Be of goodContinue reading “How to “Be of Good Cheer” in the Darkest Days”
What Does the Bible Say About Mental Illness? Part 3
After years of struggle, I finally found my way out of my depression and reconciled my brokenness before the Lord. I was freed from thinking I needed to be the perfect Christian to be happy and drew closer to the Lord.
Receiving Help at Rock Bottom and Preventing the Fall
While the phrase “hit rock bottom” has become a bit cliche in our culture, I find it a rather accurate description of my experience with depression. I most definitely hit my rock bottom seven years ago. My depression became so severe I pictured myself as a helpless child curled up in fetal position in theContinue reading “Receiving Help at Rock Bottom and Preventing the Fall”
Saying Goodbye with Joy and Tears
Many people are posting memories and notes of encouragement and love on Facebook to a dear friend of mine who is dying of cancer. Each and every one of them touch me deeply. Many make me choke up with a strong combination of joy and tears as I identify with their sentiments. I quickly realized a Facebook post just wouldn’t cut it. Michelle Beckman made too much of an impact on my life to be summed up in a few sentences on a Facebook post. So, instead, I decided to write a letter to her, here, on my blog. I hope this letter is an encouragement to you, even if you never knew Michelle, because of the great truths she showed me along the way.
Doubt: Sin or Path to Righteousness?
Be patient. Wait. Put one foot in front of the other, and be led blindly down the right path. Trust. Have faith. This has been the theme of my life for the past three years. Then God began to show me a glimmer of the sun rising in the horizon, and yet, I find myself doubting. It’s been so long since I’ve had a true glimmer of hope that I wonder, “For me? Really? Are you sure?” because I’m used to trudging on, one foot at a time sinking into the murky soft ground, requiring each step to be calculated lest I fall. A moving vehicle on solid ground helping me get closer to my dreams is so foreign to me, so I look around and wonder, “Is that really for me?”