Changing Your Victims to Victors

Turn your setbacks into success

We all have trials and adversity at different moments in life. If it is a money problem, if health problems or breakups are your issues- -- such an event will be part of any wake up call we receive. 

The good news is, with God on our side every trial can turn into a triumph!

The Purpose of Trials

James 1:2-4 (GW) states, *"My brothers and sisters, be very happy when you firm faith is tested.

 James 1:4 Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 

The lessons of these verses are this: our trials aren't simply inconsequential suffering. They are to make us stronger in faith and better people.

Imagine going to the gym. The weights are heavy at what seems like the beginning, and workouts make you cry. 

But as you continue to forge ahead, the more your muscles adapt and develop strength through endurance.

 It is similar with our spiritual muscles. And the more trials we press through, the more our faith grows.

Looking To God For Help

One of the major ways you can go from trials to triumphs is by seeking for strength in God (Psalm 28:6-7). 

Isaiah 40:31 (KJV) but they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They will mount up with wings as eagles. They will walk, and not be weary. They will walk and […]  

our strength does not come from us but comes from the Lord. Through Him, we have the strength and stamina to continue no matter how hard things get.

A Testimony of Triumph

And it made me think of an amazing testimony that was given in our ward. She was sick, really sick for a long time about which the doctors said nothing can be done now. 

But she never lost her faith. She had prayed, and trusted, believing in gods healing. And guess what? God came through! 

Not only was she restored to health, but gave her testimony of what God had done for and in herAvailable on with plenty who were fighting a similar battle.

This testimony is such a great example of how God can turn all things for our good. What seemed like lost cause became a testimony to God's grace and power.

* Get over adversity Step by practical Step

Some practical steps you can take in your trials :

1.) Pray and Seek God: 

Philippians 4:6 (GW), *“

Never worry about anything. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. *

 Ask God to help you through the storm and ask for wisdom and peace.

2. ■ Hold On! — 

Use the Bible as our power and wisdom. Reading and meditating on the word of God helps to keep us grounded, it is that spiritual food we need in order for our spirits not departed from this truth.

3. Be in Community with people who believe in you:

 Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (GW) says, *“Two is better than one because they have a good return for their work. For when his brotha falleth suddenly, he also shall rise up again. However pitiful the one who falls but that they have no helper. 

There isno oneto pick him up. 

Lean on the support, encouragement and prayers of your fellow church family.

4. ** Remember Its Only Temporary: 

Romans 8-18 you are going through fire know that Everything we Experience in This life is only temporary because eternity it will all be over * 

There may be a lot of trial and tribulation now, but the glory in heaven is eternal. The hope to continue is kept alive if we protect our sight on the greater good in life.

Conclusion: 

In Christ we are victorious

Adversity is resulted to be the most challenging part of life, but when we put it across with faith and endurance along with his divine intervention having our back all-the-time — this can lead every burden into a breakthrough.

 Romans 8:37 (GW) tells us, *“In all these cases we are more than conqueror through Christ who loved us.” * With Christ, We are more than conquerors!

Therefore, the next time you are in a storm, remember that God is with whom and He will make everything work together for your good. Believe Him, rest in His and see your trials turn to triumph!

Self-Care and Spirituality

Being close to my pastor has given me the privilege of walking alongside many people in their spiritual journeys. 

In the process, I have come to realize our mental health is not any less significant than our spiritual well-being. Actually, the two are very much interconnected. 3 John 1:2 says, 

"Dear friend, I know that you are spiritually well. I pray that you're doing well in every other way and that you're healthy." 

This verse so eloquently encompasses what God wants for us-spiritual prosperity, yet also extending into all the other facets of our lives.

The Place Where Self-Care and Faith Meet

I have met so many along the way who think somehow self-care is selfish or less spiritual, but let me remind you, it is necessary-taking care of yourself-and it's biblical! 

You remember Jesus went out to pray by Himself? Even the Son of God needed a refuel, and if Jesus needed that, how much more do we?

One Sunday, feeling drained after an extremely busy week trying to juggle the care of a grieving family, the writing of a sermon, and the counseling of a couple whose marriage was on shaky grounds, my pastor was exhausted by Saturday evening, having prepared nothing, and still had a sermon to write. 

So I did what many times he had advised others not to do; namely, he pushed through the fatigue. When Sunday morning finally came, he delivered the sermon, but somehow he knew something wasn't right.

He wasn't into it. I afterwards greeted him and asked, "Pastor, I could feel your heart, but today you seemed tired. Are you okay?" 

Well, that woke him up. He knew at that time he wasn't practicing what he preached. He wasn't taking care of himself.

From then on, self-care became an integral priority in ministry. He began to set aside several times a week to rest and pray, and to do things that rejuvenate my soul, whether it be walks in nature, reading a good book, or just spending quiet time with God.

Spiritual Practices as Self-Care

Spirituality brings a host of practices that double as self-care. Prayer, meditation, and worshipping are also excellent avenues for keeping in good mental shape, not only to communicate with God. 

When we pray, the burdens are lifted unto God, where He can carry what we cannot. As it reminds us in Philippians 4:6-7, 

"Never worry about anything. But in every situation let God know what you need in prayers and requests while giving thanks. Then God's peace, which goes beyond anything we can conceive, will guard your thoughts and emotions through Christ Jesus." 

This peace God gives is a kind of self-care, divine balm to the anxious mind.

Another story that comes to my mind is about a woman in our congregation who was struggling with anxiety. Life overwhelmed her: work, family, and all the pressure to be everything to everybody.

 We chatted about including more spiritual practices in her daily coping. She started her day with prayer, meditation on God's Word, and time to be still before the Lord. 

And as time went on, she began to realize great improvement with her mental health. She told me, "Brother, it's like I have rediscovered my anchor. God has been my hiding place, and somehow, I feel so much at peace again."

 The Power of Community

And lastly, there is community. God never intended for any of us to live life in isolation. As Galatians 6:2 encourages us, 

"Help carry each other's burdens. In this way you will follow Christ's teachings." 

Being part of a supportive faith community plays an important role in spiritual and mental health. 

It's within these communities we receive encouragement, accountability, and the important reminder that we are not alone.

Conclusion: 

Self-care and spirituality are not the two opposite sides of the coin; they are a match. Taking care of ourselves-mind, body, and spirit-is how we honor God and better prepare for Him and others. 

So take time this week to rest, recharge, and reconnect with your Creator. Your health matters to God, and it should matter to you too.

May God richly bless you as you concentrate on regaining your health and press on with your spiritual lives.

**Scripture References**:

- 3 John 1:2 (GW)

- Philippians 4:6-7 (GW)

- Galatians 6:2 (GW)

Breaking Loose from Chains of Spiritual Stagnation

 Curing lethargic relationship with God

 2 Peter 3:18 King James Version (KJV)

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

Growth, in the walk of life, is expected to be an organic and natural process. 

We mature and grow from innocent children to fully aware adults, we develop and grow from inexperienced beginners to knowledgeable authority, and we grow from being unsure starters to matured achievers. 

However, in our spiritual walk, we can often find our growth suddenly stopped dead in its tracks. 

Occasionally, we may find ourselves in the same relentless grind, working through exactly the same challenges, and we start to realize and wonder why it is that our faith no longer seems to be as alive and as dynamic as it was at any given point in time.

What we refer to as spiritual stagnation, to put it simply, is a stage or period of our life when it appears as if we have reached such a point of spiritual plateau where the progress seems hardly worth mentioning. 

You simply have no time to study the word of God, to pray, or anything that could build you up in your faith. Spiritual growth, as people refer to it, is actually growth in faith.

I want to assure you, though, that this isn't your journey's end but the beginning of a big break in your spiritual journey ahead!

Identifying the Signs of Spiritual Stagnation

Appropriate understanding and comparison should be clear: think of a river that once flowed free and has now become reduced to a trampled pond of stagnation. 

Lifeless. 

Dead. 

Just about how spiritual stagnation would be there if you don't grow in faith. One may feel disconnected from God, uninterested in spiritual practices, and even apathetic about one's relationship with Him.

In the book of Hebrews, there is a very strong reminder, especially in chapter 5, verses 12 through 14 of the God's Word translation: 

"By now you should be teachers. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the first things you need to know from God's word. You still need milk instead of solid food. All those who live on milk lack the experience to talk about what is right. They are still babies." 

Well, this passage is certainly provocative of challenge to rise and grow up from the very awkward situation in the infancy stage, and seriously begin to move on to maturity in our spiritual journey. 

It is basically for the maturing of grace in our lives that we require increasing in our understanding and being "practiced users" of the mature word so that we may become able to teach other people, rather than needing to be taught forever.

Freeing Your Spirit from Spiritual Stagnation

Overcoming spiritual stagnation requires deliberateness, something done with specific intent and purpose. 

It is about that moment to rekindle that very passion that was in, finding those places of connection again with the Source from whence all life comes through-that is, God.

 Here are a few ways you might initiate such a transformative journey: 

Reconnect to God through Prayer and Worship 

Prayer should not be considered as only a chore or a responsibility; instead, it is actually a lifeline that links you to the divine. 

It is a channel of your personal partnership with your Maker, who not only created the heavens and the earth but also really desires to listen to you personally. 

Oftentimes, when you are feeling spiritually dry or emotionally burnt out, it becomes necessary to press past the feelings of lethargy that threaten to overcome you. 

Instead, dive deep into genuine and heartrending prayers as well as inspiring worship. 

Spend time expressing all of your fears, doubts, and frustrations to God openly and honestly. 

In that way, you avail yourself to Him so that He may fill your heart and mind with His stirring peace and wisdom and guide you safely through your troubles.

Immerse Yourself into the Word of God 

This is not an ordinary book; it is the living word of God. It holds the keys to work through the hindrances along your spiritual walk. 

Spend time daily in the Word. Get to know His character, what He promises, and His expectations for your life. Let the Word of God transform your mind and renew your spirit.

Now, like Romans 12:2 (GW) says, 

"Don't become like the people of this world. Instead, change the way you think. Then you will always be be able to determine what God really wants—what is good, pleasing, and perfect."

Surround Yourself with a Supportive Faith Community

Isolation is at the root—the seedbed of stagnation in any area of life, including spiritual development. 

God never did mean for anyone to walk this life of faith alone, to be isolated from all others. 

You need to be around likeminded believers who can encourage you but also challenge you in the ways you will be in need of support. 

Engage in conversation about your faith and what you believe, join in with Bible study environments that provide further insight and connection, and finally, find a mentor who can be your guide, leading and sharpening you on your own pathway of spiritual growth. 

In the very wise words, 

"Just as iron sharpens iron, friends sharpen the minds of each other" (Proverbs 27:17, GNT).

Accept Change and Step Out in Faith  

One thing about growth is that it calls for change, and more often than not, the change calls for one to move beyond the comfort zone. 

Do not allow fear to stop you from trying new spiritual disciplines that could bless your walk with God, volunteering for ministry that might have much impact, or even accepting a leadership role within your church community if that is where your gifts and talents are to be used. 

For it is when you step in that courage of faith that God meets you head-on with direction and support. Always remember what the Word says: 

"For we walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7, GW), and that keeps you with faith in the unseen path forward.

Moving Forward with a Renewed Sense of Purpose

Loosening oneself from spiritual stagnation is not a one-time thing that can happen once and for all but an unending process that asks for continuous striving and dedication to one's growth and development. 

As you commit yourself to doing these important steps, you will realize that your faith would take on much more vibrancy and liveliness, that your relationship with God deepens considerably, and that life itself would break into an overflow of His unbounded love and profound sense of direction.

Remember that God really wants you to grow, to flourish in every area of life, to the glory of His wonderful and excellent majesty. 

Take this beautiful journey with an open arm and a willing spirit, and you shall, by all means, be surprised at how God shall lead you to new heights and levels in your faith and open doors you never thought were possible.

You are not called to stagnate in stagnation or deadness but to grow, flourish, and be a light to everything around. Live life to the fullest by leaving your comfort zone, breaking all barriers, and enjoying the abundance that God has in store for you!

Scripture References:

Hebrews 5:12-14 (God's Word Translation) 

Romans 12:2 (God's Word Translation) 

Proverbs 27:17 God's Word Translation 

2 Corinthians 5:7 GOD'S WORD Translation

Finding Your Tribe and Making Sense to Like-Minded People

 Connect with those you resonate well with

We can't help but keep running across this philosophical statement: "No man is an island." But how often have we stopped to reflect on the kernel of wisdom encapsulated in that statement? 

What makes it true? This saying speaks profoundly to the fact that humans were not created to travel this life alone. 

Humans are designed to be social: to interact with others, to create relationships, and to live in a blossoming community. 

This remarkable power of community is nothing less than life-changing and thus gives us the most essential strength we need, every kind of support one may require, and magnificent belonging, which shall be the driving force behind our betterment and prosperity.

The Importance of Community in Our Lives

Imagine you are all alone, lifting some heavyweight all by yourself, with no support at all. 

Then think of the same task again; this time, visualize around you several sets of strong hands that will help to carry the same load with you. 

What remains is to share the weight of the burden among yourselves, which was before you, and suddenly, that insurmountable task will become one which can be done. 

This is the power of a community. Through community, through people sharing with us the values at our core—being with us to reach our ends and sharing our enthusiasm—we derive much more strength than any one of us can gather alone.

The Bible, to be more precise, Proverbs 27:17 GW, has said these words: "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another." 

It is this verse that beautifully presents the robust interdependent consequences of being in a community: just like iron sharpens iron, we grow stronger, wiser, and more resilient members as we engage and relate with others who will challenge our perspective, inspire our aspirations, and help us become better accountable for our actions and choices.

Finding Your Tribe

Finding your people is about more than just surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals. It’s about building relationships that uplift and empower you. 

Start by seeking out those who share your passions, whether it’s through professional networks, social groups, or even online communities. 

Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and reach out to others—you might be surprised at how many people are also searching for meaningful connections.

Remember that your community is so much more than just a support network in which to draw what you need in the way of help and support from other members. 

You play an important role in terms of what you, as a member, do to contribute to the community supporting and contributing to the greater good for all. 

Be the friend, mentor, or ally to others that you seek for yourself. Share your support with others graciously, sharing your information and expertise, and celebrate wins and successes of those around you.

 This positivity will come back around and be a constructive and affirming feedback loop for everybody in the community.

Benefits Derived from Belonging

 It provides a reliable support system during times of need, serving as a comforting safety net, as well as a sounding board for our ideas and aspirations. 

Indeed, it will establish a large network of resources, which might open doors to things we wouldn't have had before. 

More importantly, being engaged in a community gives us a deep sense of belongingness, which is important for our emotional well-being. When we take the time to find our people, we discover a place where we are genuinely valued, where our unique contributions matter significantly, and where we have the chance to truly thrive and reach our full potential.

Hebrews 10:24-25 GW admonishes,

 "We must also consider how to encourage each other to show love and to do good things. We should not stop gathering together with other believers, as some of you are doing. Instead, we must continue encouraging each other even more as we see the day of the Lord coming." 

This scripture puts great emphasis on the necessity of frequently fellowshipping with one another and a sphere of mutual encouragement amongst the family of God.

It is in such get-togethers, either in person or virtual, that we garner the strength to carry on and march ahead. Indeed, even in the midst of troubles and hurdles when confronted by adversity.

Feel the power of the community that's incredible and transformative. Of all the things that seem to resonate in a fragmented, often lonely world, community is what matters most in this age. 

Finding your others is not just a question of finding friends. It's finding an extraordinary force of strength, inspiration, and value in our lives. 

We not only increase our value but can take on almost any challenge—actually head-on with much greater ease as a team—and therefore set ourselves up for almost certain long-term success.

Therefore, I want to encourage you to take that first step right now.

 Give your best shot to connect with those around you, to reach out to them and to start building a community that is bright and supportive and that can keep pushing you further up on your journey.

 Sometimes it's important to remember that the path always lying in front of you is generally much more manageable when you are not walking alone. 

References Bible Verses: 

Proverbs 27:17, 

GW Hebrews 10:24-25, GW

When Life Knocks You Down

You can Still Rise up Again

Life has its way of exposing us to situations that test our preparedness, surprising us. Difficult times do not ease up on you or even warn you. They just break into your life at any time, usually uninvited, testing your strength, resilience, and faith to their limits. 

It is, however, in those very rough times of hardship and strife that our actual character becomes truly molded and defined. 

So, the day life brings you unexpectedly down on your knees, what really counts is not how forceful your fall was but how you get back up again that truly defines who you are.

1. Embrace the Struggle

 While adversity can be encountered by all at different points in their lives, it is indeed an inescapable part of the human experience. On the other hand, it provides a very great opportunity for development and change in personality. 

Instead of despairing and feeling hopeless over the hardships that come your way, it is much more beneficial for your entire being to embrace the struggle you are going through. 

Every obstacle that shows up before you is an opportunity to learn good lessons from life, and it will make you grow as a person. As James 1:2-4 has so beautifully articulated, 

"Dear brothers, is your life full of difficulties and temptations? Then be happy, for when the way is rough, your patience has a chance to grow."

So let it bloom and develop without trying to run or escape from your trials and tribulations. For when your patience is finally at its utmost and in full bloom, then it is that you will be ready for whatever trial may come your way.

In this way you will be fitted with a strong, well-rounded, resilient character, whole and complete in your approach to life's trials.

2. Rely on Your Beliefs and Trust in Something Greater

Faith is such a very powerful and vital fuel that allows us to go through many of the most trying situations in life with strength and hope. 

It is easy, in most cases, to trust and believe in God when things are going well and according to our plans. The storms and adversities we go through in life test real faith. 

When trouble comes your way and challenges ensue, it becomes quite important to draw deeper into your faith. Trust that God has a meaningful and purposeful plan for you, even though, at the moment, you cannot see that plan clearly. 

As Romans 8:28 TLB reminds us, 

"And we know that all that happens to us is working for our good if we love God and are fitting into his plans."

3. Keep Pushing Forward

But the most dangerous that occurs during these times is that insidious urge to just give up the fight and wallow in despair. No matter how difficult and bothersome life can sometimes prove to be, never allow yourself to stop trying to move on with your life in pursuit of a sound purpose. 

Sometimes, progress might be slow, but every little step you make, no matter how seemingly unimportant, is a step closer to victory and success.

The Apostle Paul faced a host of troubles and tribulations all the way along his lifetime. Yet with all these severe hostilities and barriers, he had firmly kept his feet to proceed with a motive and goal. 

In the epistle to the Philippians, precisely in chapter 3, words 13-14, he articulates, 

"No, dear brothers, I am still not all I should be, but I am bringing all my energies to bear on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I strain to reach the end of the race and receive the prize for which God is calling us up to heaven because of what Christ Jesus did for us." 

This  underlines the depth and girth of focusing on the future. We advance the vocation God has given us with high encouragement and motivation over the marvelous and precious price of Christ Jesus for him. 

4. Trust the strength from God.

Our individual strength alone is often inadequate for us to successfully overcome the weighty  challenges of life. 

However, when we make the decision to trust and depend on God, we're able to tap into unlimited source of divine strength that empowers us above and beyond our own human limitations. 

Isaiah 41:10 (TLB) contains an encouraging and assuring message that is powerful: 

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, you are my God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." 

We are not alone in the fight of life and that God is always present to uplift and empower us through our battles.

5. Remember, This Too Shall Pass

No hardship lasts forever. Even the darkest night eventually gives way to the dawn. 

Hold on to hope and remember that your current situation is temporary. 

2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (TLB) puts it beautifully: 

“These troubles and sufferings of ours are, after all, quite small and won’t last very long. Yet this short time of distress will result in God’s richest blessing upon us forever and ever!

Instead of focusing our attention on the challenges and difficulties we can easily see in our current situation, on all the sorts of troubles and hardships that press in upon us daily, we turn our gaze with a sense of hope and expectancy upon the immense and wonderful joys awaiting us in heaven. 

We are assured of great things we have not seen or experienced. The troubles which now burden and crush us will, in a little while, pass away and be forgotten. 

But those deeper joys which are yet to come will abide forever and never depart from us.

Conclusion

This is an entirely and absolutely natural portion of the human experience. But it most assuredly doesn't have to be what defines or directs your person. 

Through those times when life seems to cut you off at the pass, it's time to get back up knowing that you are stronger, wiser, and more resilient than you ever knew you could be. 

Take your trust in God's overall design for your life, laying the foundation of faith even further, and never forget that no adversity is ever too great when you are walking with Him. 

As one struggles through these trials and tribulations, and finally surmounts them, you realize that hardship is not just a downfall for you. Through that trying time, it was possibly one of the finest and the most inspirational comebacks.

Keep it going, keep the faith, and keep raising the bar. The best is yet to happen and the fondest of memories are still to be created!

Scriptures Referenced:

James 1:2-4 TLB 

Romans 8:28 TLB 

Philippians 3:13-14 (TLB) 

Isaiah 41:10 (TLB) 

2 Corinthians 4:17-18 (TLB)

Healing Broken Hearts

 

A heart is like glass

Crack a glass and 

the crack will 

forever be

No matter what, everyone has to go through the negativity associated with the loss of someone or something that was dear to them at some point in their life.

It may be due to the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or the loss of a job or even a dream. It may be said that grief can make any person feel mangled and lost.

While healing a broken heart is deeply personal and very particular, knowing some universal truths can at least offer comfort and guidance during hard times.

Understanding Grief

Grief is not linear. Many people describe waves with some better days than others. There are several stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.

People may not go through all the stages, nor will they necessarily go through them in this order.

Just let yourself feel what you need to feel, without judgment or pressure to "move on."

Acknowledge your Feelings

The first step to healing is to first acknowledge the grief you are going through. It is quite okay to tell yourself that you hurt, that life seems really not fair, and that you don't know which way to go.

This is not a sign of weakness, but a courageous step toward healing. This is what the Bible tells us about being honest about our pain:

"The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all." Ps 34:19, GW

This verse doesn't offer that life is going to be free of trouble; it reassures us that we are not alone in our struggles.

Finding Comfort in Scripture

The Bible is full of comfort in the aftermath of loss. It reminds one that, while overwhelming, grief is not eternal; but there is a future to hope for. One such verse by which many people draw comfort is:

"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and delivers those who are crushed in spirit." (Psalms 34:18, GW)

This verse reminds us of the beautiful truth that God is close to us when we are down. He sees our pain and desires to stand by us as our loneliness becomes most overwhelming.

Another important verse is:

"Blessed are those who mourn. They will be comforted." (Matthew 5:4, GW)

This passage of the Beatitudes speaks as an assurance that mourning and grieving are not in vain. Comfort and peace rest with those, even in the midst of deep sorrow.

Allow Yourself to Grieve

Allow yourself permission to grieve. It's something that so often we let society hurry along and say, "Get over it." But the truth is, there is no timeline on grief.

It's okay to take your time and know that healing isn't about forgetting but living a new way after loss.

Community

Grief may be lonely, but don't be afraid to reach out. Whether it be friends, family members, or a support group, sharing your hurt with others who care for you can lighten the burden. The Bible encourages us to bear one another's burdens:

"Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." (Gal 6:2 GW)

Allowing others to support you and offering your support to others can create a sense of community and shared strength.

Finding New Meaning
You may find a new sense of meaning and purpose in life while journeying through your grief. It doesn't mean replacing what you lost but finding ways to make good memories of it or the person who is no more with you.

Probably starting a new project, carrying out some volunteer work, or just living your life gladly and peacefully can help make you feel that life is worth living.

In Ecclesiastes, we are reminded that there is a time for everything:

"There is a right time for everything, and everything on earth will happen at the right time." Ecclesiastes 3:1, GW

This verse can remind us that though the time of loss seems wrong, unfair, there may well be a larger picture we often can't see, and in time, healing will come.

Marching on With Hope

The future doesn't mean forgetting. It means carrying the memory of what was lost in a way that allows you to continue living.

Healing isn't going to happen overnight. It's a journey, and it's okay that sometimes the journey takes some time. Hold onto hope for better days to come.

You never really are alone in your sorrow.

"I will never leave you, and I will never abandon you." Hebrews 13:5 GW

We find our greatest comfort in that promise—that no matter how deep the sorrow, we will be held by a love that will never let us go.

Conclusion

Probably two of the toughest experiences that someone can have, grief and loss also bring with them the opportunities for growth, reflection, and a stronger connection with others and God.

Beginning the process of healing and regaining hope can start by first allowing oneself to be able to acknowledge one's pain, taking comfort from the scriptures, and not being afraid to grieve.

Remember that it's okay to take time, seek support, and hold onto hope that healing is possible. You are definitely not alone, and in time, your heart can heal.

Purpose and Meaning: Making Sense of Midlife

What if midlife was a can-full of candy and worms and all crap, would we still find meaning in it?

The Midlife Crisis

Midlife, for some, feels a lot like teetering on the edge of a cliff, staring down at all that's passed by, looking out with an uncertain gaze toward what's ahead. 

The energy of youth is waning, and the quest for purpose grows louder and more insistent. Quite possibly, you will catch yourself wondering, "What am I really here for?"

The Midlife Drift

Imagine you are driving down the road, windows down, music on high. It feels great, enjoying all the things you're seeing, hearing, doing—all very new at every turn. 

But after each mile, the feeling of excitement starts to fade away, and one becomes a bit lost. That thrill starts to fade, and one is hit with the realization that maybe they are no longer headed in the right direction. 

That's what midlife can feel like. Where did those goals—set up in your 20s and 30s—get you? The kids grow up, careers level out, and life's daily grind becomes more and more visible.

An Unexpected Wake-Up Call

I recall a friend, whom we'll call only by her first name, Sue. Shortly after her 45th birthday, all was well: she was successful in her career, had her loving family, and a beautiful home, yet something was missing. 

She was just feeling an emptiness inside like her life was half there and not very fulfilling. She looked at a pile of old photo albums one day and reminisced. 

The good times seemed richer and full of texture then; she knew that she'd been busy ticking the boxes life threw her way, but inwardly, she hadn't really stopped to think: "What does it all mean?

The story of Sue is not unique. In fact, it's a chapter in many of our lives. General feeling of drift, which provides the sense of disorientation and, "We don't know what we're doing here and we don't know where to go from here." 

But this can be the beginning of something so powerful it can be unimaginable—purpose.

Meaning-making in the midst of midlife usually happens when one must stop, look back, and recollect how much life really matters and redefine his or her life. 

Scary? 

Definitely. 

Yet at this midlife mark, there is a chance to create a new definition of what life can really mean, to reframe it. As written 

Ecclesiastes 3:1, New Living Translation (NLT),

 "For everything, there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven." 

Literally, midlife is a season—a time not for the end of the road but for steering into what will bring sweet joy and satisfaction.

A Whole New Perspective

Imagine that midlife is like turning to the second chapter in this book called life. You were learning things about yourself and the world in those first chapters, and now is the time to really apply the knowledge. 

The best time to recalibrate your values and align actions in the pursuit of those values is at this moment. What stirs your passion? What will be your legacy? Those can be really big questions, but at the essence, it is what fulfills purpose.

Well, for Sue, she chose to lighten her professional load and become a volunteer at a shelter. It wasn't glamorous, but it brought her deep fulfillment. 

Her evenings, once filled with endless work emails, were now spent mentoring young women who were facing some of the same hurdles she overcame.

The Power of Faith

Another friend, Mike, got mugged by a situation much like mine. He had spent decades climbing the greasy pole, reached the top, looked around, and—so to speak—wondered, "Is this it?" 

Aching to fix the hollowness in his soul, he began to find solace in his spirituality. He seized Psalm 138:8: "The Lord will work out his plans for my life— for your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever."

It was then that Mike started to realize that his purpose was not all about success in a career. He focused on lighting his community and, in return, started a small group at his church for others to find their way toward living a life of purpose. 

Right away, it changed him and those around him.

Embrace the Journey

But finding meaning from midlife is not something that really involves a great revelation, a 180-degree turn, or doing something suddenly and really different. 

It's just about those changes that can really come in small but very deliberate steps as you move forward to live a life that you believe in, one that really expresses your deeply cherished principles. 

Embrace this season as a journey, and not the destination. Remember, you are not out in this thing alone; plenty have walked this path and gained a more fundamental, insightful sense of purpose amidst the voyage.

Ponder about it, from where you have come and where you think you are going: 

"For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." —Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT)

Midlife can be the most meaningful time of your life so far—a time to refocus, find new meaning in things you love to do, and re-envision what's possible in the second half of life.

Scripture References:

Ecclesiastes3:1 LEB

Psalms 138:8 LEB

Jeremiah 29:11 LEB

Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Reconciling with the Past

You will learn to live a happier life if you learn to forgive and forget

Forgiveness

This is the source of very deep actions of forgiveness and reconciliation; they heal our souls and repair the fragmented relationships that have been disintegrated. These processes are not easy, which requires a high degree of courage and humility. In solving these ruptured relationships, the path requires that we understand true forgiveness and right the wrongs committed. The process is difficult, but at the same time, it is worthy in experiencing inner peace and spiritual growth.

Our Power to Forgive

Forgiveness is an action of power—freeing us from being enslaved by our own bitterness and resentment. Not necessarily forgetting the wrongs done to us, but choosing to let go of their claim on our hearts—in an act of the will.

Consider a lady called Sarah, who draped the albatross of her bitterness against her father for many years. He had left the family when she was but a small girl, leaving her feeling abandoned and all alone. That abandonment hurt had trailed her into adulthood, poisoning her relationships and robbing her of joy. Every time she would try to get on with her life, the bitterness pulled her back again, shining the spotlight on those ugly deep scars from her childhood.

One day, Sarah attended a church service where the preacher was talking about the power of forgiveness. 

His message pierced her heart and she suddenly realized that her angry feelings did not hurt her father at all; it only killed her inside. 

Sarah prayed that she receives the grace to forgive, not her father for his wrongful deeds towards her, but to free herself from the bitterness that had taken control of her. 

As she whispered some prayer of forgiveness, a weight lifted from her shoulders, and for the first time in years, she found true peace.

The Bible underlines that liberating power of forgiveness in

 Ephesians 4:31-32 (NLT)

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you."* The journey of forgiveness for Sarah had enabled her to move on, no longer held hostage by the pain in her past.

The Road to Reconciliation

While forgiveness is a personal act, reconciliation is a joint effort. It involves the rebuilding of trust and restoration of relationships gone bad. 

Reconciliation is a process that calls for humility and patience and often the will to confront unpleasant truths.

Consider the example from the Bible of Joseph. While his brothers sold him off into slavery, he spent years being away from home, undergoing so much hardship, and led a completely different life. 

Even when his brothers wrongly sold him into slavery, Joseph did not take revenge on them when he finally rose to a position of power within the government of Egypt. 

He tested the hearts of the brothers, to see whether they had changed or not, and after he was convinced that they were truly repentant, Joseph revealed himself to them, embraced them, and gave them his forgiveness.

In Genesis 50:20-21 (NLT), Joseph tells his brothers', "You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.  21  No, don't be afraid. I will continue to take care of you and your children." So he reassured them by speaking kindly to them.

Joseph did not immediately set on a reconciliatory journey. It took him some internalization that probably God would heal the wounds of the past. 

Joseph, for giving his brothers and reconciling with them, did not just restore his family; he eventually saved them from the famine.

 Reconciling With the Past

Reconciling with the past is an important step that has to be made on the journey to forgiveness and reconciliation—to acknowledge the pain, seek healing, and decide to walk on with love and grace. 

It does not mean that the past has been erased or that the wrongs, by some magical process, are now right, but it does mean that now no longer has the past power over our present and future.

When we reflect on the stories of Sarah and Joseph, we realize that forgiveness and reconciliation are very important to our relationship with God. 

They are the most faithful of acts: the incidents that challenge us and call us to embrace God's plan and transforming power, that even in the agony of it all, it could result in healing and growth.

In 2 Corinthians 5:18 (NLT), Paul reminds us, "And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him."

 Just as God has reconciled us to Himself through Christ, we are called to pursue reconciliation in our relationships.

Conclusion

Forgiveness and reconciliation are not easy, yet they are part and parcel of our well-being and spiritual growth. In the act of forgiving and striving for reconciliation with others, the deepest healing and peace will come. 

It is painful, but what freedom of the past and the future that you gain with every step is so much a benefit.

As you consider your personal history, think about areas where you might need to forgive or be reconciled. Pray for empowerment to make the necessary steps, believing that God will guide your process. 

Remember, although the past shapes us, it does not define us. Forgiveness and reconciliation can bring freedom that will enable us to move on—to live in the fullness of God's grace.