Many Christians are stunted in their spiritual growth because they don’t understand or express their deep emotions and desires. As pastors, ministry leaders, caregivers, or parents we may get so busy or so focused on other people that we become disconnected from our own emotions and needs. But being self-aware is crucial to our abilities…
“Do not worry… Do not worry… Do not worry…” The Psalmist repeats his counsel three times in Psalm 37. (vv 1, 7, 8) Just like Jesus did in Matthew 6. (vv 25, 31, 34) “Do not worry.” This is not the empty reassurance of “Don’t worry. Be happy!” The Bible never advises denial of emotion. The…
What do you feel after you put yourself out there to minister to others? Many people struggle with self-doubt or self-criticism. Pastors may wonder if they preached a good sermon. Small group leaders may question their effectiveness. Counselors and caregivers feel might feel unsure they said the right thing. Anyone who serves others is likely…
People get angry in different ways. You may raise your voice. Or react with harsh words. Or gossip negatively about someone. Or carry resentment. Or stonewall someone who has offended you. Or get depressed. Or you can follow the example of the Psalmist and offer an angry prayer. The Psalmist shows us how to deal…
“St Francis’ Prayer Inspired By the Our Father” is one of his best writings, but it’s little known. It’s based on his meditation of the Lord’s Prayer.
This article features simple, step-by-step instructions on how to lead a Lectio Divina group. These instructions are meant to go along with Soul Shepherding’s library of Lectio Divina Guides, each of which provide the format we use. I’m assuming that you have some knowledge and experience of with Benedict’s 6th Century way of reading and…
Have you ever seen something that brought you distress or even traumatized you? Do you have any harmful images you’ve internalized that periodically come back to upset you?
Some Christians are afraid of seeking to use their imagination for personal or spiritual help because they associate it with Eastern religions, secular psychology, hypnosis, or “New Age” philosophy. But there is a Biblical meditation. God has created human beings with the ability to imagine and the Bible is full of positive images and pictures…
Jesus’ John 17 prayer can used as a discernment prayer for Christian leaders and groups. This tool frames Jesus’ petitions as six key discernment questions. If we make Jesus’ holy prayer our prayer then we’re sure to get in sync with God’s will!
How do you respond when a family member speaks harshly to you? When you’re publicly criticized or slandered? When you’re vandalized or abused? Often it’s people we love or those we serve who mistreat us. We all suffer in these ways, especially pastors and others who serve the Lord in ministry. How are we to…