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All of us are broken. The roots of sin and shame grow deep within, appearing as sharp thorns that pierce the harmony in our lives and relationships in this toilsome life under the sun. But perhaps we were meant to feel the burden - not to cover or deny it - but to move us to cry for help. Do we dare to look up for rescue? This is the beginning, for there are other trees where hope grows, and beauty is restored…
Featured Article: 4 Facets of Biblical Grief
by Stephen Trout
“All I feel is numb.” “It’s like our family picture has been shattered, and all I can do is stare at the broken
pieces on the floor.” “I feel like I’ve been split in two.” “To be honest, I’m angry at being left alone
like this.” “I just feel so lost. Why did God allow this? Does He really care?”
The voices of grief are many, and they are among us.
Perhaps if the voice of our own heart was heard, it might sound similar.
The word “grief” literally means pain, and pain is often connected to some significant change. It need not be confined to death. We may grieve the loss of possessions, of health, or a move away from the family home. We may grieve a divorce, the loss of time that comes with a promotion, even the loss of a pet. In our times of painful sorrow, it’s comforting to know that our grief is no surprise to God. On the contrary, it’s something which Jesus is “deeply acquainted,” in a personal way (Isa. 53:3)… (read entire blog post)
Dealing With Past Sexual Abuse
by Dan Allender
“…the first task in entering the battle is facing the fact that a battle exists. Facing the reality of past abuse is a process. It does not happen quickly or in one climactic moment of honesty. It usually occurs over a lengthy time, during which the past abuse is seen in light of current choices of flight or fight….” (read article)
Recommended Resource for Parents!
Tedd Tripp’s New Book: Instructing a Child’s Heart (The Sequel to Shepherding a Child’s Heart)
Tedd Tripp has consistently reminded us that, like us, our children need a Gospel-centered framework to grow a vision for the glory of God. Deuteronomy 6 tells us to seize moments with our children “as we walk along the road” together. Tripp’s new book explores what it means to help our children be dazzled by God as we live redemptively in today’s world. (From the Cover)”…Impress truth on the hearts of your children, not to control or manage them, but to point them to the greatest joy and happiness that they can experience delighting in God and the goodness of his ways.”
See Instructing a Child’s Heart Video
Recommended Reading:
Depression…A Stubborn Darkness: Light for the Path
by Edward T. Welch
See video clip at: Depression Video
For the believer struggling with depression (often even more prevalent during Holiday seasons), every fiber in his being may whisper “surrender.” But as Welch wisely and compassionately shows us, “there are present benefits to the blood of Christ.” David Powlison notes that in Depression, “…Ed has done more than think about a ‘problem.’ He loves people who struggle with depression. They aren’t ‘cases’ or ‘diagnostic categories.’ They are only-too-human strugglers. His sympathy and gentleness with people make his insights into people truly helpful.” An excellent resource to help you love those prone to the “small dark box” that is depression, as you walk with them along the path of the True Light, Jesus. (Check out an interview with Ed here)
Kaleo Christian Counseling Center exists in the conviction that the need is great for distinctly Gospel-centered counseling which focuses upon the issues of the heart. (read more)