Surviving My Past Because of My Future

  As parents, we tell our kids no or not right now a lot. Can we go to the movies tonight? Can I buy this toy? Can my friend spend the night? Can we get another dog?  There are endless reasons why parents have to say no.  In some cases, the parent is able to give a specific, logical reason.  In other cases, the reason is left unexplained, leaving the child irritated or even angry. Consider a newly licensed teenager who wants to take a long road trip with several friends in the car.  Fear wells up in the parents causing them to refute the child’s plan.  The parents know this is not a responsible option as it presents loads of liability on their adolescent who just gained newfound independence with a vehicle.  However, the 16-year-old views the situation from the perspective that he is legally able to travel wherever he desires.  The law says he is competent and the denied request is unfair.  How could you tell me no?  This makes no sens...

Romans 8:28 is a tough verse to digest as a grieving mom. I’ve met others who feel the same. “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God, and are called according to his purpose for them.” Romans 8:28 (NLT) Lately, this verse has cropped up in books and conversations on numerous occasions. Its relentless nagging prompted me to dig deeper into what this verse means for my grieving heart. Rather than disregard it because there was no way it could be true in the midst of my storm, I decided to study it and reflect on how God wants me to apply it in my life, a practice I have found extremely valuable in my sorrow.  Authors have written entire books focused solely on these twenty-seven words. I would never argue that the verse is undeserving of such significant study. People everywhere facing disappointments and challenges commonly find these words encouraging and uplifting.  Yet, these very same words can conversely tear at our heart...