The Silent Servants of Restoration
But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; […]
The Science of Being Used Again
People often ask, “Can a divorced man pastor? If not, can he be a missionary? Can a pastor have a divorced wife?”These questions arise because many believe certain failures permanently disqualify someone from serving God. Yet, the truth is, very few people alive today haven’t done something that caused them to forfeit, to some extent, […]
The Risks of Restoration
Restoring the fallen is a divine calling but not without its risks and challenges. While this article primarily addresses pastors, the principles apply to all who feel compelled to help restore those who have strayed. The ministry of restoration carries a price, and those who undertake it must count the cost. The Bible commands restoration, […]
The Gift of DisGRACE
One of the most feared words in the human language is “disgrace.” Yet, there is value in considering the gift that can emerge from disgrace. Disgrace, while painful, can often lead to profound spiritual growth, renewal, and a deeper relationship with God. Consider the example of Jesus Christ. He endured the ultimate disgrace, suffering a […]
Stop Sabotaging Yourself
“I must be the most wicked person in all the world.”“I deserve what I’m getting.”“God can never use me again.”“There will never be another opportunity like I once had.”“I don’t fit in with other Christians anymore.”“I am going to pay for my sins, for the rest of my life.”“My prayers aren’t worth hearing.”“I’ll never change—this […]
Ruined Relationships from a Fall
One of the most difficult aspects of experiencing a fall is dealing with the people who were hurt and cannot extend forgiveness. There are often individuals who once shared close bonds, but now harbor resentment or choose to sever ties. These can include fellow preachers, friends, former church members, and even people we trained. The […]
Restore “Such an One”
The Word of God is rich with meaning, and the way Scripture is phrased carries profound truths that can easily be overlooked. Galatians 6:1 is a familiar verse to many, yet upon deeper reflection, its wording reveals layers of insight about the heart of restoration. The phrase “restore such an one” holds more significance than […]
Restoration: One Size Does Not Fit All
Restoration, like healing, is a deeply personal and nuanced process. It cannot be approached with a rigid formula or a one-size-fits-all mentality. Just as grief manifests differently in each individual, the journey toward spiritual and emotional restoration varies widely from person to person. No two individuals are identical in their struggles, their circumstances, or the […]
Remorse Without Regrets
One of the most significant challenges I have faced is the tendency for people to feel sorry for me because of what I lost due to my sin. These sincere and well-meaning individuals, though trying to offer comfort, often become a source of discouragement. They pity me for what I can no longer do because […]
Living the Forgiven Life
To be forgiven is one of the greatest gifts God offers, but to truly experience its fullness, one must actively live a forgiven life. What does that look like? It is a life that reflects an understanding of the mercy and grace extended by God for past failures. It is tragic to be forgiven and […]