Rationalizations

Even though I have known people like this, still, I cannot fathom Saul’s perspective. How can anyone be so clueless?

Stop and Surrender

So much for Paul. How about you? Fast forward to the twenty-first century. Are you afflicted and burdened excessively? Do you feel as if you’re under such intense pressure these days that you, too, are close to despair?

Positive Separations

Let’s be painfully candid here. I’ve had my own share of arguments, and you’ve had yours. I’ve had some that were never reconciled. Thankfully, most ended in a renewed friendship.

It’s Not About You!

I need to underscore a foundational fact: God’s goal is not to make sure you’re happy. No matter how hard it is for you to believe this, it’s time to do so. Life is not about your being comfortable and happy and successful and pain free.

A Lesser Known

Act two of the drama opens with, “When he came to Jerusalem . . . ” (v. 26). Jerusalem! Saul owned Jerusalem. He went to graduate school in that great town. I mean, the man knew that old city like the back of his hand.

A Profound Plan

That’s what makes the climax of Job’s life so satisfying. This dear man, who never deserved the suffering he endured, is dealt with justly. And those who made his life so miserable weren’t overlooked either.

Harsh but Realistic

While speaking the truth Job left the defense of his own character in the Lord’s hands. He was firm and deliberate, but he remained in control. I repeat, I understand what it’s like to be unjustly maligned.

Words of Comfort

In the early 1960s when a Christian suffered from a depression that resulted in Job’s kind of thinking and candid admission, you never said so publicly. You swallowed your sorrow.

When the Darkness Hits

Why did Elijah fear Jezebel’s intimidating threats? Why did he run away from his longstanding priority of serving God and hide in fear under the shadow of that solitary tree, deep in the wilderness?

The Blues

Elijah was a heroic prophet, without question. He was also a man of great humility, as we have seen. But let’s keep in mind that he was just a man—a human being, subject to the human condition, as we all are.