Is It Guilt or Is It Conviction?
For those who are children of God, it is important not to confuse conviction with guilt, as Satan often tries to blur the lines. Guilt brings feelings of helplessness, while conviction serves as a catalyst for change. There are two types of conviction that can often be mistaken for guilt. The first is “pre-sin conviction,” […]
If You Can’t Be an Arm, Be a Stub
Many years ago, I preached annually at Apache Creek Ranch, a camp nestled in the mountains of New Mexico. One summer, a young man attended camp who had only one arm. He was a strong, muscular young man—clearly once a gifted athlete. But cancer had taken most of his left arm, leaving behind only a […]
How to Get Over Failures from the Past
Everyone has experienced failure. Some failures seem greater than others, but at some point, all have fallen short in serving the Lord. Some fail by actions committed, while others fail by neglecting to act. When failures feel overwhelming, what steps can be taken? These principles offer encouragement and guidance to move beyond past failures and […]
Dealing with Anger and Bitterness When Restoring a Fallen Person
Anger is a natural response in those who have experienced significant loss or failure. The emotional toll can manifest as anger when someone falls—whether through personal sin, moral failure, or other circumstances. This reaction is often misunderstood or mishandled during the process of restoration. However, recognizing the role anger plays in grief is essential for […]
Overcoming the Cycle of Victimhood
At some point, most encounter individuals who have endured real mistreatment but continue to live under the weight of their pain. Instead of pursuing healing, they cling to the identity of a perpetual victim—reliving their wounds, casting blame, and demanding justice. This mindset can easily entangle anyone, overshadowing faith, joy, and personal growth. If left […]
What is True Grace?
There are moments when something familiar is seen as if for the very first time, despite countless prior encounters. Such an experience can occur when reflecting on the words of “Amazing Grace.” The second verse, often overlooked, carries a profound and haunting message: T’was grace that taught my heart to fear,and grace my fears relieved.How […]
Does Failure Erase the Good That Was Accomplished?
For those who have once labored diligently in God’s service but have experienced a fall into sin, there often lingers a painful question—does failure erase the good that was accomplished? The weight of past mistakes can cloud the memory of victories once celebrated. A temptation arises to doubt the sincerity of previous works or to […]
Don’t Play With Fire
A recent conversation highlighted the tragic downfall of a well-known pastor who had fallen into moral sin. Despite building a great ministry, he succumbed to failure, raising questions about how such a respected figure could fall so deeply. This situation reflects a progression that can occur when passion for God shifts subtly over time. When […]
Curative Restoration
Across churches and ministries, there is a widespread acknowledgment of the importance of restoration. Most pastors and leaders would affirm their belief in restoring the fallen. However, the reality often reveals a gap between belief and practice. While restoration is preached, few are truly engaged in the delicate and demanding work of bringing the fallen […]
Considering Thyself Lest Thou Also Be Tempted
A sobering pattern emerges when observing those who harshly condemn the fallen—often, they are the next to stumble. This recurring reality underscores the divine warning found in Galatians 6:1: “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou […]