When God Blesses You
There have been only a few times when I’ve wondered how life might have turned out if we hadn’t had kids, or at least, had fewer children. Usually the thought creeps in when I see how little free time my wife and I have these days to pursue some important - but not urgent - things. Or it might show up in my heart when I see how someone else is spending their money - in ways I could never imagine, what with braces and music lessons and college tuition and clothing and food (boy, have we noticed the rising prices for food!).
These thoughts and feelings occur only once in a great while. After reflecting and processing, I always end up grateful once again for the wonderful children God has given us, and the way that they are turning out. They love the Lord and are, by most measures, really good kids, if I may say so myself. In so many ways, I am a blessed man.
Here’s what a noted Bible teacher had to say about this matter, offering a helpful way to view earthly treasures and God’s greater gifts:
“If you fear the Lord, you will be blessed. How? With a million dollars? No, [the Bible] doesn’t say that. [It] says you know when you’ve been blessed when it’s well with you, and your family is together … Blessing is having a unified family, not a big bank account.”
Sounds Good, But…
…anti-discrimination laws often have unintended - or unanticipated - consequences. Here’s what you need to know about threats to your religious liberties. Here’s where you can listen for more details.
Touching A Nerve
The program yesterday with Dr. R.T. Kendall was pretty powerful. Here’s one sample comment from those who were touched by his insights regarding self-forgiveness:
She shared that over the weekend she had a conflict with her husband that brought up some hurtful issues, and it took her 3 days to forgive herself. When she heard R.T. Kendall’s confession of not being able to forgive himself for such a long time, her struggle was validated.
In case you missed it, here’s the link. BTW, the second part of that conversation airs in the U.S. on Thursday, May 29.
Self-Condemnation?
I grew up in a tradition that recognized the importance of feeling guilt over one’s sinfulness. And I’ve been around some folks who emply guilt as a motivator (it can be a very effective factor!).
For many years, though, I’ve embraced grace as an operative in my life. God’s grace, His beautiful grace, covers my failures. Because he has forgiven me of my sins, I think I approach my shortcomings in a realistic and appropriate manner.
Unfortunately, for some people there is just no way on earth they could forgive themselves for what they did - or what they didn’t do. The pain of that failure is to great, the memory too vivid, the guilt too overwhelming.
Is that you? Do you struggle with letting go of the past and moving on with life? Are there things in your life for which you cannot forgive yourself?
Here’s what one expert says about feeling unforgiveable.
And here’s the conversation with Dr. Dobson about getting past self-condemnation.
Enjoying God’s Creation
As I type this, Piles Peak is surrounded by storm clouds and the view is dramatic. Last week, however, I couldn’t see “the Peak” at all - we were in Texas on the beach. As boys are prone to do, a couple of my boys joined me for some sand castle construction in the sand. Great fun, and a wonderful memory.
I hope you’ve been able to get outdoors and spend some time with family and friends enjoying God’s handiwork. If you’d like suggestions on how to do that, try this discussion.
And while you are there, look for the slideshow of other Fuller Family pictures as we enjoy nature together, as well as a slideshow from a gifted photographer and speaker, Bill Ivy.
If He Could Talk
If he could talk to us today, here’s what he’d say. But I’m not referring to the prophet…
Our Deepest Sympathies For The Chapmans
Our hearts are grieving with Steven and Mary Beth Chapman and their family as they mourn the unexpected loss of their youngest daughter, Maria. This wonderful artist has been beloved for many years. His devotion to his family and children - and his passion for God’s work in the lives of orphans - have encouraged and influenced millions around the world.
We pray that God will bring peace, that He will comfort and sustain them in this exceptionally difficult time, and that His presence will be tangible to the entire family.
You’ll find prayer points and links for expressing your condolences at Steven’s official website.
Can You Forgive?
What’s one of the hardest things in the world? Forgiving someone who hurt you. Here’s what some listeners are telling us about the series we’re presenting with Dr. R.T. Kendall:
- Having heard the broadcast, she called to ask how to forgive someone (in her case, an older brother) who doesn’t want to be forgiven.
- …heard today’s broadcast about forgiveness and while she understands the principles being conveyed by Dr. Kendall, she thinks it’s very important to clarify the issue of child molestation. She thinks what was said could encourage child molesters to tell children that ‘God says you must forgive me and not tell anyone’. She wants FOF to emphasize more clearly the necessity for children to tell a responsible adult about abuse being perpetrated.
Clearly, we’re touching a nerve here. How about you?How hard is it for you to forgive?
A Jackhammer To The Process
“The California Supreme Court has taken a jackhammer to the democratic process … Four judges discarded the votes of 4,618,673 Californians who approved the state’s ‘Defense of Marriage Act.’ ”
That’s Tony Perkins, who is one of the guests on today’s important conversation hosted by Dr. Dobson. Listen to learn why should you care about the lunacy in that Californian court.
Expelled - More Insights
Dr. Del Tackett has some great perspectives on the recent movie featuring Ben Stein. Read his blog here.
