Saturday, October 21, 2006

Tools That Help!

What's in your toolbelt that serves people in crisis?

Every plumber I ever called for service had an adequate supply of resources. They have proper tools, pipes and knowledge that provided assistance to resolve my problems. The same is true for every profession. Having the right "stuff" is key to providing assistance.

The same is true in crisis evangelism. While many tools are intangible, having the right tools is key. What are these tools?

One. A heart that listens intently.

Two. Time.

These two resources are the answers needed for those in crisis.

Many people believe that they need to have the right answer and feel the need to fix the problems. But this puts a barrier for those in crisis.

The next time someone is in need, start with intentional listening and be willing to take the time necessary to demonstrate compassion and the presence of Christ.

Thursday, October 19, 2006

Quote on Adversity

Victor Frankl one wrote, "A weak faith is weakened by perdicaments and catastrophes whereas a strong faith is measured by them."

Think about it. God intends to help is in our weaknesses.

Sunday, October 15, 2006

Job 19:25-27

Job 19:25-27

19:25- I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth.
19:26- And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God;
19:27- I myself will see him with my own eyes--I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!

New International Version

In The Midst Of It All!

In the midst of hard-ache and trouble the Bible tells us that God is with us. His comfort and hope of eternal life abides ever sure. As you face hardship, know that God is your strength.

As Job suffered hard ache at the hand of our arch enemy. He drew his strength from God. While the hardship brought loneliness and pain, he knew that God would deliver him. (Job 1:13-22)

In the midst of pain and trouble we are challenged to give up. But Job looked to God. Job did not charge God with his trouble.

Today I am reminded that we should prepare for the storms of life. Pastor Bob of the Brookhaven Wesleyan Church encouraged us to spiritually prepare for the difficult days. Job's loss is an example for us. He was the most prestigous and wealthy of his day. He was a God-fearing and pure, moral example. This was a time where God's blessing was not seen!

In times of trouble, we should look to God.

In my many times that I have met with people who are suffering heart-ache. The enemy would like us to give up but God has something in it that would ultimately bless us. I have tried to console many who are suffering with the words that bring comfort and hope. Much of the time I have had no words but have sat in silence with someone who is hurting. Words are so shallow in these times anyways.

Crisis Evangelism is all about the presence of God in times of trouble. Christians should be present in times of trouble. There is no greater, more sacred time to comfort the brokenhearted. (See Isaiah 61)

Today, take time to bring a ministry to the hurting and broken-hearted.