Category Archives: Hard Things

The Path from Despair to Joy in Difficult Seasons

The journey to joy can be challenging, especially during difficult seasons like winter and the holidays. True joy is sought in Christ, as self-despair leads to recognition of our need for grace. Through faith in Jesus, we find hope and purpose amidst sorrow, transforming despair into deeper fellowship with Him.

Embracing Our Thorns: Faith Through Pain

I consider depression, and the role of faith in navigating difficult, lasting struggles. I discuss personal pain and the difficulty in finding authentic connections within the church, emphasizing the importance of humility and grace in facing hardships.

Enduring Discouragement

In our faith journey, we face discouragement from our sinful nature and Satan. Confession and fellowship with believers help combat this darkness. Maintaining perspective through God’s promises and community is vital. We must remember God’s faithfulness, especially in adversity, as exemplified in the life of Elijah, who ultimately received God’s guidance and reassurance.

Grief and Faith: Embracing Loss with Christ

Grief is an intimate and ongoing journey that many face after loss, and it often leaves individuals feeling alone. Empathy and active listening from others can provide comfort during these painful times. Recognizing grief as a path towards spiritual closeness with God can also offer hope and purpose amidst sorrow.

Journey of Forgiveness

The blog post discusses living with grace, mercy, and kindness and the Christian practice of forgiveness as explored in Lysa Terkeurst’s book, “Forgiving What You Can’t Forget”. It highlights the significance of forgiveness in breaking cycles of anger and cynicism, processing grief, and achieving healing. The author suggests that forgiveness enables one to be more like Jesus, showing compassion and understanding towards others. The reader is encouraged to work through their pain and embrace forgiveness to find peace and redemption.