Jesus has the inside track on the what-if's and then-what's of Scripture. Want a window into relationships and remembering life from the other side of the grave? Read Luke 16:19-31. There you'll learn that each person is known by name and earthly history. There is a great chasm between those in torment and those in … Continue reading Certain Justice
Helpers
Restoration or Reconciliation?
If one individual is more concerned about restoring their marriage than another, there's probably something wrong. That doesn't mean I'm against marriage, or obedience, or loving God and my neighbor. But when someone wants to "restore" a relationship, here are questions that come to mind: Is this a mutual concern? If it's one-sided, wisdom dictates … Continue reading Restoration or Reconciliation?
Persecution vs. Abuse
"...your perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions...is a plain indication of God's righteous judgment so that you will be considered worthy of the kingdom of God, for which indeed you are suffering." (2 Thessalonians 1:4-5) Some godly individuals overlook domestic abuse because they see it as an affliction that … Continue reading Persecution vs. Abuse
Tried and Failed
"I tried (fill in the blank) and it didn't work...." We look for solutions to problems, problems much bigger than ourselves. We believe God is true, right and BIG, but what where do we turn when His Word doesn't work? This scenario is especially true in domestic abuse situations. Pastors, husbands, church leaders, even well-meaning … Continue reading Tried and Failed
When I Need Jesus
There are problems that can't be fixed. Moments that can't be recovered. And times you want to shout from the rooftop so everyone can hear. This morning as I made coffee, in thinking about mundane and ordinary tasks, even as the coronavirus seems to be running our lives, I overheard myself ask, "So what does … Continue reading When I Need Jesus
Supernatural Grace
Jonathon Hollingsworth writes, "By extending mercy to the perpetrator when no one else will, the mob hopes to prove to a watching world just how 'edgy' and 'countercultural' Christian forgiveness is. The more visible the forgiveness, the better the witness … Too often, Christians mistake the transgressors, not the transgressed, as the ones most in … Continue reading Supernatural Grace
Differing Weights
"To show partiality in judgement is not good. He who says to the wicked, 'You are righteous,' peoples will curse him, nations will abhor him; But to those who rebuke the wicked will be delight, and a good blessing will come upon them. He kisses the lips who gives a right answer." (Proverbs 24:23-26) Today … Continue reading Differing Weights
