“I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” ~ (John 16:33 ESV)
Couple weeks ago I shared about ‘Being Real‘; this issue is very important to me, so I pick it up again.
Currently I am reading the book “Plan B” by pastor Pete Wilson (Cross Point Church/Nashville). I am so thankful that there are pastors out there that don’t mind being honest; sharing their own struggles walking by faith.
Many think that followers of Christ don’t have problems; all is hunky-dory. Well, I think not. We have the same struggles as people who do not believe in Christ and His resurrection. The only difference is that we have communities (churches) that help us go through the rough spots in life. I know I have asked many times “why”; I may not get the answer I like, but I know that at the end all works out for the good…
If you need a little ‘pick-me-up’, I recommend Pete Wilson’s book. It is written with honesty and down to earth talk. Too bad I don’t live in Nashville :)…But then again, I also have pastors that are real and share their struggles. Thank you Lord for surrounding us with pastors that are not afraid of being honest with their congregations.
What are you thankful for this week, my friends? Please do share with us by leaving a link to your Thankful Thursday post below.
Thank you for stopping by today. Remember: struggles today will define us for tomorrow.
Love & peace,
Iris
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We have a very “real” pastor, too ~ what a wonderful blessing! He and his wife recently dealt with a death in their extended family and though he preached the following Sunday, he was overcome with emotion towards the end and just sat down and wept. I happened to be at the piano that morning, so I launched into the song I’d chosen for post-service music and almost instantly, several men from the church gathered round him to pray with him and comfort him. It really was a beautiful thing. I love my church family!
I love it when people are real too. Somehow sharing our struggles helps others have more courage.
The greatest disservice we can do to one another whether in or out of the church, is to pretend that all is well all the time. Where does that leave the myriad people who are in pain? Truth, honesty, and transparency are the hallmarks of those who follow God.
Blessings!
Thank you so much for the weekly reminder to put in writing the things I am thankful for.
Real people are such a blessing.
It is so important for us to be real and honest in the church. Thank-you for your post, Iris.
Young people are watching us. How to we deal with problems and sin. Do we share our weakness, our struggles. Do we confess sin? Or do we try to keep a sparkling image by wearing a mask?
As a mother I have made mistakes, subjected my daughter to my fears. I have had to confess my human failures in order to help my daughters as they become parents.
If we are honest then perhaps teens and young women will approach us when they are struggling. They will know that we are in the human condition together as we seek the Lord, desiring to grow. Perhaps someone who is struggling will have the courage to ask for prayer.
My heart is heavy for a young woman who was afraid to talk about a pre-marital sexual relationship–one that she did not know how to escape from– because she wanted to keep the image of purity. It has led her to very painful circumstance.
Thank you for the book suggestion. Love it when people be real, it can really help others in their walk of life. Thank you also for hosting. I’m a new follower. I love reading these thankful Thursday posts!
I’ve been struggling to find a ministry. I’ve been very impatient, but of course God isn’t going to let me down! I have two places to serve outside my home. Not to mention the mission field that is my marriage.
I enjoyed Pete Wilson’s book as well… Good, solid real-world examples of where God’s Word applies in our times of struggle.
Pete’s messages are actually watchable each Sunday over video streaming if you have interest in his ministry. He’s an excellent speaker, and well worth watching if you get the time.
Have a Blessed Day!
I am blessed to be participating in my first Thankful Thursday with your blog!
Thank you for being real! Everything is definitely NOT always hunky-dory! I guess those are the fires we’re tested in and honed to perfection. I agree with Tami… sharing our struggles and imperfections really does help us to encourage each other.
Thank you for the opportunity to link up!
God bless!
Such a good post, love the reminder at the end.. Struggles today will define us tomorrow. So good! Thank you for sharing.
Blessings,
Misty
I am also thankful for people who are willing to be real. I am also thankful for pastors in our church that are real and are willing to share their ups and downs. What a privilege it is to pray for each other as we trek through this Christian life. Thanks Phil for mentioning that Pete Wilson’s messages over video streaming. Thanks, Iris for sharing about Pete’s book.
Being real with each other is so important. It makes such a difference in a friendship.