Here are some thought-provoking reads found this week:
The Change Along the Way, HT to Challies. “Ever since mankind was in the Garden, and that fatal first sin was committed, we have tried to shortcut the goals set before us. As with our first mother, we are fickle creatures, seeking always the final product without the process in between. . . .Even our Saviour was tempted in the wilderness to escape the way of the cross for the kingdoms of the world, for the devil knew this inherent weakness in mankind. We long for the glory, and if we can avoid the cross, all the better.”
Can Faith and Fear Coexist in the Life of a Believer? “What separates a person of faith from the crowd? It’s not a lack of fear. The faithful choose to listen to their faith instead of their fears. Faith assures us that God’s invisible presence and power accompanies us as we obey His voice.”
How to Have a Soft Heart. “You can probably think of women who have been cut by life and now wear their pain as sharp edges. But you probably also know women who have walked through as much difficulty and somehow emerged softer. Gentler. More gracious. More trusting. Have you ever wondered how to end up like them?”
Do You Talk Too Much, or not Enough? “The danger in too much talking arises when the entertainment value lies in the drama. And when we enjoy talking, it’s easy for the conversation to drift there. Here are some danger zones where many words can lead to sin.”
Does God Really Care What You Wear This Summer? “Perhaps you’ve wondered it too: does God really care what I wear this summer? Before diving in to answer that question, it may be helpful to consider another: do I really want to know the heart of God on this topic, or am I merely looking for affirmation of my already-formed opinions? In other words, what do I want more? An answer to the question ‘Does God really care what I wear?’ Or am I more concerned with how close I can get to a perceived line of immodesty without going over? “
Dear Weary Caregiver, HT to the Story Warren. “But for those (like me) who need regular reminding, here are three lessons God is teaching me about himself and his ways as I care for my boy. I hope they encourage you as you continue to lay down your life in the service of another.”
Ten Reasons Why I Love Verse by Verse Exposition, HT to Challies. “What is verse by verse exposition? This is when a pastor preaches a book of the Bible, reading and teaching each verse in order to expose it’s meaning. Sure, this can be done poorly, but I think that this approach is super helpful for the church and really beneficial for the preacher. I want to outline ten reasons why I love verse by verse exposition.”
How to Guide Your Children Through the Digital Age, HT to Challies. “Technology is everywhere. There’s no escaping its influence—not only in our own lives but also in the lives of our children. Here are three powerful ways technology is shaping your children and how you can help them respond with wisdom and discernment.”
A Plea to Biblical Counselors Regarding Autism, HT to Challies. “Recently, I’ve heard biblical counselors make unhelpful comments about autism, namely that it’s just a “Big Pharma” money-making scheme. They insist that diagnostic criteria are too vague, making an autism diagnosis too subjective. They even say that biblical counselors have better answers, as if they are better suited to “treat” autism. Biblical counselors, I beg you, do not go down this road, as it will lead to irreparable damage to individuals and families impacted by autism. This road represents a profound misunderstanding of what autism is, how it is diagnosed, and the medical side effects with which these families suffer.”
God sees trouble and grief, which we can lay in His hands where it is safe,
and where we are safe. Corrie ten Boom
Stray Thoughts 
I am back now that I found the comment button on the top and not the bottom. I agree on the autism comments. I myself went through year of depression and had several women tell me that I just need to have faith or read certain verses. I had both. I finally got help with a Christian counselor that suggested I see my family doctor about it. I end up on medication that saved my life. Both told me I was a strong woman of faith that had a medical issue that needed treating. It would be between me, the doctor, the counselor and God. I have shared that with many women. I like your quote from Cory ten Boom. She is buried about 20 feet from my grandparents and parents. It is where I will be also. I like to leave her flowers too.
Thanks for persevering with commenting! My settings only require a name and email, but WordPress gets a little wonky sometimes.
That’s so true that it’s not either/or–God or medicine and counseling. He uses those things as tools.
I love verse-by-verse preaching also, as Jacob Crouch supports on his blog. That way we can learn the meaning of scripture in context. But now, Jacob has given me ten more reasons to appreciate this approach! Thank you, Barbara!
I love going verse by verse, too, as it really helps get the message in context. But I love that Jacob brought out so many more good reasons for it.
I’m working my way through several of these articles. Good ones! I appreciate the one on expository teaching. I wish my pastor used this method.
I’ve been blessed that our first pastor after we were married taught verse-by-verse exposition. We’ve looked for that every time we’ve had to move.