Tag Archives: Life

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Harnessing the Power of Emotions: Strategies for Emotional Control and Clarity

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Emotions are an integral part of the human experience, shaping our perceptions, decisions, and interactions with the world around us. However, the key to leading a balanced and intentional life lies in our ability to control and channel our emotions effectively. In this informative article, we will delve into the fascinating world of emotions and uncover strategies to regain control over them. By understanding the delicate balance between passion, emotion, and rationality, we can navigate life with clarity and intention. Join us on this enlightening journey as we explore practical techniques to harness the power of emotions, ensuring they serve as tools rather than drivers of our journey.

Emotions are intricate and multifaceted phenomena that influence our thoughts, behaviors, and overall well-being. It is crucial to gain a deeper understanding of the different types of emotions and their underlying triggers. By recognizing the nuances of our emotional experiences, we can begin to cultivate self-awareness and take the first step towards emotional control.

Passion and emotion are powerful forces that drive us towards our goals and ignite our creativity. However, when left unchecked, they can cloud our judgment and hinder our decision-making abilities. Achieving a balance between passion, emotion, and rationality is essential for making sound choices and maintaining a clear perspective. We will explore practical strategies for integrating these elements and leveraging their strengths in our lives.

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions as well as empathize with others. By cultivating emotional intelligence, we enhance our capacity to control our emotional responses effectively. We will delve into techniques for developing self-awareness, regulating emotions, and fostering empathy. These skills empower us to navigate challenging situations with composure and engage in more meaningful connections with others.

Mindfulness practices offer powerful tools for gaining control over our emotions. By cultivating a present-moment awareness, we can observe our emotions without being consumed by them. Mindfulness enables us to develop a non-judgmental attitude towards our emotions, allowing us to respond consciously rather than react impulsively. We will explore mindfulness exercises and techniques to enhance emotional awareness and promote emotional balance.

Rather than suppressing or ignoring our emotions, we can learn to channel them effectively, harnessing their energy for personal growth and positive outcomes. We will explore practical strategies such as journaling, creative expression, physical exercise, and seeking support from trusted individuals. These techniques provide healthy outlets for emotions and contribute to their constructive expression and integration into our lives.

Emotions are a powerful force within us, shaping our experiences and influencing our decisions. By understanding the complex nature of emotions and implementing strategies for emotional control, we can navigate life with clarity, intention, and resilience. The delicate balance between passion, emotion, and rationality enables us to make informed choices and cultivate meaningful connections with others. Through cultivating emotional intelligence, practicing mindfulness, and employing practical techniques for emotional channeling, we can regain control over our emotional landscape. Emotions become tools that propel us forward rather than drivers that dictate our lives. By embracing this journey of self-discovery and emotional mastery, we unlock our true potential and cultivate a fulfilling and balanced existence.

“Dealing With Emotions” – Episode 18
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The Power of Love: An Educational Exploration of Loving Your Enemies

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In a world where conflict and division often prevail, the idea of loving our enemies may seem impossible or even counterintuitive. However, it is precisely in the face of this challenge that we have an opportunity to grow and transform. In this educational article, we will delve into the profound concept of loving your enemies and explore how it can be accomplished. By embracing compassion, forgiveness, and understanding, we can unlock the transformative power of love that transcends boundaries and has the potential to heal relationships. Join us on this enlightening journey as we gain valuable insights and discover how this seemingly impossible mission can become a reality.


Loving our enemies is no easy task. It goes against our natural inclinations to retaliate or hold grudges when we feel wronged or threatened. Initially, the idea of loving those who have hurt us or oppose us may seem insurmountable. However, it is essential to recognize that this challenge offers us an opportunity for personal growth and a chance to break the cycle of hatred and animosity.


At the heart of loving our enemies lies compassion. It involves recognizing the shared humanity in both ourselves and others, even those we perceive as enemies. By cultivating compassion and empathy, we can begin to understand the underlying motivations and experiences that shape people’s actions. This understanding allows us to see beyond their harmful behavior and connect with their innate humanity.


Forgiveness is a powerful tool in the journey of loving our enemies. It does not condone or justify their actions but rather frees us from the burden of anger and resentment. Forgiveness is a conscious choice to let go of negative emotions and seek healing for ourselves and others. It opens the door to reconciliation and the possibility of transforming broken relationships.

Understanding plays a vital role in our ability to love our enemies. Engaging in open and honest dialogue can foster a deeper understanding of their perspectives, fears, and desires. By actively listening and seeking common ground, we can find areas of agreement and shared values. This understanding paves the way for empathy and compassion, ultimately contributing to the cultivation of love for our enemies.

Love possesses the power to transcend boundaries and transform even the most challenging relationships. It sees beyond differences and chooses to focus on shared humanity. Love is not a passive feeling but an active commitment to treat others with kindness, respect, and compassion. When we choose to love our enemies, we break the cycle of hatred and create an environment where healing and reconciliation become possible.

Loving our enemies may appear impossible at first, but through compassion, forgiveness, understanding, and the transformative power of love, we can accomplish this profound mission. By embracing the challenge, we unlock our potential for personal growth, heal broken relationships, and contribute to a more compassionate and harmonious world. Let us embark on this enlightening journey together and discover the incredible power of love to transcend boundaries, heal wounds, and foster genuine connections.

“Love Your Enemy” – Episode 17
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Unleashing the Power of Sleep: Exploring Sleep Hygiene for Optimal Rest

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In our fast-paced, demanding lives, quality sleep often takes a backseat. However, the topic of sleep hygiene sheds light on the crucial role sleep plays in our overall well-being. This educational blog post aims to explore the fascinating world of sleep hygiene, emphasizing how our behaviors can impact the God-designed process of rest. By understanding the importance of sleep and implementing strategies for optimizing our sleep hygiene, we can unlock the full potential of rest and experience a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Sleep is not just a period of inactivity; it is a vital process essential for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It supports brain function, memory consolidation, immune system regulation, and overall restoration of the body. Understanding the significance of sleep motivates us to prioritize and optimize this God-given gift.

One key aspect of sleep hygiene is establishing a consistent sleep schedule. Aim for a regular bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends. This consistency helps regulate your body’s internal clock and promotes better sleep quality and overall sleep-wake balance.

Your sleep environment plays a significant role in the quality of your rest. Create a sleep-friendly environment by ensuring your bedroom is cool, quiet, and dark. Consider using blackout curtains, earplugs, or white noise machines to minimize external disturbances. Invest in a comfortable mattress, pillows, and bedding to optimize your physical comfort during sleep.

Electronic devices emit blue light that can disrupt your natural sleep-wake cycle. Establish a pre-sleep routine that involves unplugging from electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime. Engage in calming activities such as reading a book, practicing relaxation techniques, or taking a warm bath to signal your body that it’s time to wind down.

What and when you eat and drink can significantly impact your sleep quality. Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime, as they can interfere with falling asleep and disrupt the sleep cycle. Opt for light, sleep-promoting snacks like a small piece of fruit or a cup of herbal tea if you need a pre-bedtime snack.

Developing a relaxation routine before bed can help transition your mind and body into a state of rest. Engage in activities that promote relaxation, such as deep breathing exercises, gentle stretching, meditation, or listening to calming music. Find what works best for you and make it a regular part of your bedtime routine.

Stress and worry can significantly impact the quality of your sleep. Practice stress management techniques such as journaling, prayer, or engaging in activities that bring you joy and peace. Prioritize self-care and seek support from trusted individuals or professionals when needed.

Sleep hygiene offers invaluable insights into the optimization of our God-designed process of rest. By understanding the importance of sleep and implementing strategies to enhance our sleep hygiene, we can unlock the full potential of rest for a healthier, more fulfilling life. Prioritize consistent sleep schedules, create a sleep-friendly environment, unplug from electronic devices, practice mindful eating and drinking, establish relaxation routines, and manage stress effectively. Embrace the transformative power of sleep and allow it to become an integral part of your overall well-being journey.

“Sleep Hygiene” – Episode 16
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The Fruit We Bear: Aligning with God’s Divine Purpose

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In the journey of faith, the concept of “the fruit we bear” carries profound significance. It prompts us to contemplate whether we are on the right path, destined for pruning, or at risk of being separated from the life-giving vine—Jesus. This article delves into the theme of bearing fruit and explores the implications it holds for our lives. By understanding the importance of the fruit we bear and striving to align ourselves with God’s divine purpose, we can experience spiritual growth and fulfillment.

Understanding the Metaphor of Fruit: In the referenced video (below), the metaphor of bearing fruit draws parallels to our spiritual lives. Just as a healthy tree produces good fruit, our actions, attitudes, and character reflect the condition of our hearts. Bearing fruit signifies the manifestation of God’s transformative work within us, which is seen in our love, kindness, patience, and other virtues.

Evaluating Our Fruit: To assess whether we are on the right path or at risk of separation from Jesus, it is essential to evaluate the quality of the fruit we bear. Reflect on your thoughts, words, and actions. Do they align with the teachings of Jesus and reflect His love? Assess whether your fruit is rooted in selflessness, humility, forgiveness, and compassion. Honest self-reflection allows us to identify areas for growth and realignment with God’s purpose.

Pruning for Growth: Pruning is a necessary process for a fruitful tree. Similarly, in our spiritual lives, God often prunes us to remove unhealthy habits, attitudes, and relationships that hinder our growth. While pruning can be painful, it allows us to bear even more fruit. Embrace challenges and difficulties as opportunities for growth and trust that God’s pruning process is for our ultimate benefit.

Nourishing Our Connection with the Vine: As branches cannot bear fruit unless they remain connected to the vine, our connection with Jesus is vital for bearing good fruit. Cultivate a deep and intimate relationship with Him through prayer, meditation, studying Scripture, and participating in worship and fellowship. Nourish your connection with the vine to draw strength, wisdom, and guidance, enabling you to bear fruit that glorifies God.

Aligning with God’s Divine Purpose: Each of us has a unique purpose in God’s grand plan. Aligning with this purpose requires surrendering our will to God’s and seeking His guidance in all aspects of our lives. Ask yourself if your goals, ambitions, and actions align with God’s will. Pray for discernment and allow God to shape your desires and lead you toward fulfilling His purpose for you.

Cultivating the Fruits of the Spirit: The fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—are the essence of a life aligned with God’s purpose. Nurture these qualities within yourself through intentional practice and reliance on the Holy Spirit. As you cultivate the fruits of the Spirit, you not only grow closer to God but also positively impact the lives of those around you.

Conclusion: The concept of the fruit we bear invites us to reflect on our spiritual journey and the alignment of our lives with God’s divine purpose. By evaluating the quality of our fruit, embracing pruning for growth, nourishing our connection with Jesus, and cultivating the fruits of the Spirit, we can strive to bear fruit that glorifies God and brings about transformation in our lives and the lives of others. Let us remain connected to the life-giving vine and seek to align ourselves with God’s divine purpose, allowing His love and grace to flow through us and bear abundant and impactful fruit.

“The Fruit We Bear” – Episode 15
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Bearing Sin Alone: Overcoming Temptation and Cultivating Righteousness

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In the journey of life, we are all faced with the challenges of temptation and the burden of sin. The concept of bearing sin alone, as explored in the referenced video, delves into the profound notion of taking personal responsibility for our actions and finding effective ways to combat temptation. This blog post aims to inspire and guide you in navigating the challenges of sin, exploring strategies to endure and overcome it, and ultimately cultivating a life filled with purpose and righteousness.

To effectively combat temptation, it is essential to acknowledge the power of personal responsibility. Understand that you have control over your thoughts, choices, and actions. Realize that bearing sin alone means taking ownership of your mistakes and committing to self-improvement.

Developing self-awareness is crucial in identifying and understanding the root causes of your temptations. Reflect on your thoughts, emotions, and triggers that lead you astray. By recognizing your weaknesses and vulnerabilities, you can proactively address them and develop strategies to overcome them.

While bearing sin alone emphasizes personal responsibility, it does not negate the importance of seeking support and accountability from trusted individuals. Surround yourself with a community of like-minded individuals who can provide encouragement, guidance, and accountability. Share your struggles with them, and allow them to hold you accountable as you strive for righteousness.

Cultivate a strong moral compass rooted in your values and beliefs. Clearly define your principles and understand the consequences of deviating from them. Let your moral compass guide your decisions and actions, enabling you to resist temptations that do not align with your core values.

Mindfulness and self-control are powerful tools in combating temptation. By being present in the moment, you can recognize temptations as they arise and consciously choose to resist them. Practice self-control by redirecting your focus, engaging in positive activities, and replacing negative thoughts or behaviors with virtuous alternatives.

For many, faith plays a significant role in combating temptation and finding strength to overcome sin. Turn to your spiritual beliefs for guidance and seek a higher power to assist you on your journey. Pray, meditate, and engage in spiritual practices that align with your beliefs, finding solace and strength in your relationship with the divine.

Overcoming sin is a lifelong process that involves learning from failures and persevering. When you stumble, rather than succumbing to despair or self-condemnation, use your mistakes as stepping stones for growth. Embrace the lessons learned and commit to making better choices in the future. Remember that resilience and determination are key to enduring and overcoming the challenges of sin.

Bearing sin alone is a profound concept that reminds us of our personal responsibility to combat temptation and overcome sin. By acknowledging the power of personal responsibility, cultivating self-awareness, embracing accountability, developing a strong moral compass, practicing mindfulness and self-control, seeking divine guidance, and learning from failures, we can navigate the challenges of sin and cultivate a life filled with purpose and righteousness. Let this journey be one of self-discovery, growth, and transformation as you strive to become the best version of yourself.

“Bearing Sin Alone” – Episode 14
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Finding Peace Amidst Overwhelming Circumstances: Navigating Exhaustion and Restoring Balance

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Feeling overwhelmed is a common experience in our fast-paced and demanding world. It can leave us exhausted, mentally drained, and struggling to find balance in our lives. In this blog post, we will delve into the depths of overwhelm, exploring practical strategies to regain control and restore a sense of harmony. Furthermore, we will examine how cultivating a strong relationship with Jesus can bring us peace and serenity, even in the midst of overwhelming circumstances.

1. Understanding when You’re Overwhelmed: Navigating Exhaustion and Restoring Balance:

The first step in overcoming overwhelm is to acknowledge and accept the feelings of exhaustion and being overwhelmed. Recognize that it is normal to experience these emotions and that it’s important to address them rather than ignoring or suppressing them.

Take care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally. Practice self-care activities such as getting enough rest, nourishing your body with healthy food, engaging in exercise or relaxation techniques, and setting boundaries to protect your time and energy.

Identify tasks and responsibilities that can be delegated or eliminated. Learn to say no to additional commitments that may contribute to your overwhelm. Simplify your schedule and focus on what truly matters to regain a sense of control and balance.

Reach out to loved ones, friends, or a support group. Sharing your feelings and concerns can provide a sense of relief and help you gain perspective. Seek guidance from others who have experienced similar situations and learn from their coping strategies.

2. Finding Peace through a Strong Relationship with Jesus:

Cultivating a strong relationship with Jesus involves surrendering our worries, fears, and burdens to Him. Place your trust in His plan and timing, knowing that He is with you every step of the way. Allow His peace to fill your heart as you release control and lean on His guidance.

Engage in prayer and quiet reflection to connect with Jesus on a deeper level. Pour out your concerns, anxieties, and struggles to Him, and listen for His gentle guidance and reassurance. Create space in your daily routine for moments of spiritual connection and rejuvenation.

Embrace the teachings of Jesus and seek to align your life with His principles of love, compassion, and service. By living out these values, you can find purpose and meaning, which brings a sense of fulfillment and contentment, even in the midst of overwhelming circumstances.

Set aside time for stillness and rest in God’s presence. Allow His peace to envelop you, refreshing your spirit and rejuvenating your soul. Trust in His promise to provide rest for the weary and find solace in His loving embrace.

Feeling overwhelmed is a challenging experience, but by implementing practical strategies, we can regain control, restore balance, and navigate through exhaustion. Additionally, cultivating a strong relationship with Jesus brings peace amidst the overwhelm. Through surrender, prayer, reflection, finding purpose, and resting in His presence, we can discover a sense of serenity that transcends our circumstances. Embrace these strategies and allow the transformative power of Jesus’ love to bring you peace in the midst of life’s overwhelming moments.

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The Power of Resilience: Bouncing Back Stronger Than Ever

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Resilience is an empowering quality that allows us to overcome life’s challenges and bounce back stronger than ever. It is the ability to adapt, persevere, and grow in the face of adversity. In this blog post, we will dive deep into the topic of resilience and explore effective strategies to cultivate it in our lives. Additionally, we will examine how understanding the teachings of Jesus can provide a framework for resilience, helping us mend and find strength in difficult times.

  1. Building Resilience: Strategies for Overcoming Challenges:

a) Cultivate a positive mindset: Resilience starts with a positive mindset. Embrace optimism, focus on solutions rather than problems, and cultivate self-belief. Train your mind to see setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning.

b) Practice self-care: Prioritize self-care to nurture your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Engage in activities that bring you joy, practice mindfulness or meditation, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Taking care of yourself enhances your resilience and ability to cope with challenges.

c) Seek support and connection: Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, or mentors. Share your struggles, seek guidance, and lean on others for support. Connecting with like-minded individuals can provide perspective, encouragement, and strength during tough times.

d) Set achievable goals: Break down your goals into smaller, manageable steps. This allows you to make progress and celebrate victories along the way, boosting your confidence and resilience. Embrace a growth mindset and be open to adjusting your goals when necessary.

  1. Jesus’ Teachings and Resilience:

a) Finding solace and strength: Understanding Jesus’ teachings can provide solace and strength during challenging moments. His message of love, forgiveness, and redemption can guide us through adversity, reminding us that we are not alone and that there is always hope.

b) Faith and trust: Faith in Jesus can bolster our resilience by providing a sense of purpose and trust in a higher power. Believing that there is a greater plan, even in the midst of difficulties, can give us the strength to persevere and bounce back.

c) Lessons in forgiveness and resilience: Jesus’ teachings on forgiveness can help us develop resilience by freeing us from the burdens of anger, resentment, and bitterness. By practicing forgiveness, we release negative emotions and open ourselves to healing and growth.

d) Drawing inspiration from Jesus’ life: Jesus’ own journey is a testament to resilience. His unwavering commitment to his purpose, even in the face of immense challenges, serves as a powerful example. By studying his life, we can draw inspiration and guidance for our own resilience.

Conclusion:

Resilience empowers us to overcome life’s challenges, bounce back stronger, and thrive in the face of adversity. By cultivating a positive mindset, practicing self-care, seeking support, and setting achievable goals, we can enhance our resilience. Moreover, understanding the teachings of Jesus can provide a profound framework for resilience, offering solace, strength, and inspiration. Embrace the power of resilience, draw from your inner strength, and trust that you have the ability to overcome any obstacle that comes your way.

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Embrace Your Inner Strength: Embodying the Warrior Ethos

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Warriors are not merely individuals of the battlefield, but the embodiment of unwavering determination, resilience, and the indomitable spirit that resides within each and every man. They possess a unique strength that transcends physicality and permeates their entire being. Today, I call upon you, my fellow men, to awaken that dormant warrior within, to tap into your deepest reserves of power and courage. It is time to embrace your inner strength and embrace the warrior ethos that lies within you.

Within the core of your being, a fire burns bright—an unyielding flame that ignites the path towards greatness. It is a flame that only you can unleash, a wellspring of power waiting to be harnessed. Remember, strength is not solely defined by muscles or physical prowess, but by the depths of your character and the indomitable will that drives you forward. It is the unbreakable spirit that refuses to bow down to adversity and refuses to accept defeat.

In a world that often tries to diminish the significance of masculinity, it becomes essential for men to rediscover their true essence. It is not a call to aggression or dominance, but a reminder that within you lies the potential to be a force for good, a protector, and a beacon of strength in the lives of others. It is about finding harmony between physical, mental, and emotional well-being—a harmonious balance that empowers you to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and poise.

Embracing the warrior ethos means embracing the responsibility to better oneself continually. It requires developing self-discipline, honing your skills, and cultivating a mindset that thrives on perseverance. When you face obstacles, view them as opportunities for growth and transformation. Remember, it is during life’s most challenging moments that the warrior within you emerges, guiding you to rise above the circumstances and emerge stronger than ever before.

But being a warrior does not mean you must fight alone. True strength lies in unity, brotherhood, and the support of those who share your journey. Surround yourself with individuals who inspire and uplift you, who challenge you to become the best version of yourself. Together, you can forge unbreakable bonds, encouraging one another to embrace the warrior within.

So, my fellow men, today I urge you to embrace your inner strength, your warrior ethos. Stand tall, shoulders back, and head held high. Be a beacon of courage, resilience, and honor. Strive for excellence in all that you do, knowing that the warrior within you is capable of achieving greatness. Embrace your true power and let it radiate out into the world, leaving an indelible mark of inspiration for others to follow.

Remember, you are not just a man; you are a warrior. Embrace your inner strength and let it guide you towards a life of purpose, fulfillment, and unwavering determination. The world needs your strength, your passion, and your unique contribution. Embrace the warrior within, and become the hero of your own story.

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The King is Coming

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Reading: Amos 9:1-10

The Season of Joy is upon us. Praise be to the Most High God! Yahweh, Lord of Hosts!

              This is a most exciting time of year. The time where we, as Christians, celebrate the Advent of our Savior. What is an advent? And who is our Savior? It is quite simple: Our King IS coming. But it wasn’t as the believers of the day thought.

              Advent, by definition, means the coming of a notable person, thing or event. In the case of Jesus, God, Himself, incarnated himself supernaturally into the Blessed Mother Mary and was delivered to us in a manger. This humble beginning is not in the slightest what was expected of the coming Messiah. In our reading we find a powerful ruler, executing righteous judgement upon the wickedness upon the Earth. Jesus, the mighty God whose wrath is swift and terrifying, thus eradicating evil from our world. The same Jesus we find in that lowly cave in Bethlehem is the same triumphant King at his return or second Advent.

God works in a fascinating way. By quietly entering the world without Pomp and Circumstance, the wicked forces of darkness were unable to track His movements into our realm. King Herod, despite his best efforts, was unable to prevent the coming of Jesus, the one TRUE KING. Jesus, who WILL return to bring eternal peace to the realm must first fulfill the bold prophecy of Amos. He confirms this later in His ministry as we find in The Book of Matthew, Chapter 10, Verse 34:

“Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.”

The King IS coming. We celebrate in this season His first advent, but joyfully in our hearts realize His second is imminent.

God bless you all. Merry Christmas.

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Response: Abbot Tryphon – Broken

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Broken
What To Do When We’re Broken

It is only human to become despondent when we have failed in keeping to our moral, ethical and spiritual standards, succumbing, instead, to temptation. Our Orthodox Faith teaches that we must be compassionate towards others, loving, quick to forgive, exemplar in our Christian living, and always demonstrating to the world that we belong to Christ. Yet we also know we fail, most of the time, in living up to the standards of the Gospels, appearing no different than the pagans.

We look to the example of the saints, and wonder why we seem so far removed from their Christ-like example of living the Gospels. Over and over, we sink in the muck and mire of sin, becoming broken, downtrodden, and sick. In our brokenness we betray the Gospels, our own standards of behavior, and the expectations of others. We know the truth of the words, “There is none good but One, that is, God (Matthew 19:17),” because we fail, over and over, in our own seeming inability to live as we believe.

We know we have been called to holiness by Christ, and that He gives us the strength, courage, and even the ability, to live our lives out in holiness. Yet, try as we might, we find ourselves utterly failing to live the Gospels, failing in our witness before others, and letting down our friends and family, with behavior that is anything but an example of Gospel living. We are broken, bordering on despair.

Nevertheless, even as we struggle with our sins, we must remember that we were specifically created by God for participation in His Divinity. We have been called by Him, and have become a Royal people, specifically created to participate and share fully in the life of God. The key to this life in God is to be found in repentance. Even in our brokenness, we must not give in to despondency, for our Saviour is quick to forgive. When we have found ourselves falling short of the glory of God, we must turn toward this very God in repentance, knowing that He is quick to forgive.

When we are broken, despair is the enemy, and should be seen as an emotion that has come from the Evil One. Hope and forgiveness are the gifts that come from God. During those times when we have failed in our Christian vocation, we must embrace the hope that comes with a repentant heart, and see, in our brokenness, the reminder that we are to always keep our hearts and minds in the knowledge that we have a God Who is quick to forgive. Despair is the enemy of our salvation, because in despair, the Evil One would have us believe there is no hope, and therefore no salvation. In our brokenness we must turn our gaze towards our Co-Suffering Saviour, the One Who lifts us up, out of our brokenness, making us whole, and granting us forgiveness and life.

Love in Christ,
Abbot Tryphon

RESPONSE

When you find yourself broken, remember that Christ was broken for us. We all fall short of His glory, but He loves us all the same. What Jesus endured during his crucifixion was one of the worst possible torments imaginable. Being whipped, stabbed, adorned with a crown of thorns, suffocating, and ultimately giving up the Ghost, He endured for us.

Life will get you down. You will slip into sin, fall flat on your face, and find yourself at rock bottom. Fear not, weary traveler. For the rock upon which your life is built IS Jesus. Sometimes you must be stripped of all the worldly things in your life and be left beaten and broken. It is there in that place that you will find comfort in our Lord Jesus. Allow Him to come into your life, fill you with His warmth and love, and tend to your brokenness.

Christ WILL make you whole.

Learn from your brokenness. You have to look back at times on those situations and debrief them in your head. What action or scenario caused the break? How did you respond? How could you have handled this situation without triggering the break? Working through these problems and refocusing your eyes on the LORD will see you through. We’re all broken creatures, but our Lord God mends us.

God bless you all.

-Tobinator