What if you (and the friend or relative you’re so worried about) are being pursued for good every day?
“Surely Your goodness and lovingkindness pursue me every day of my life.” Psalm 23:6
“The Hound of Heaven” Francis Thompson
really giving
If it bothers me when people don’t appreciate the time (or effort or whatever) that I give, maybe I'm not really giving.
“Unhealthy [people] don’t really give; they invest.” Clarence Thomson
“Do good to others . . . without expecting to get anything in return.” Luke 6:35
a crying need
When somebody truly hears you (instead of jumping in with answers and advice), it heals.
“There’s a crying need to be heard – not just listened to, but truly heard.” A wise friend
“Giving an answer before hearing is foolish and dishonoring.” Proverbs 18:13
becoming real
Becoming healthy and whole is like walking up a spiral staircase. You keep coming back around to the same old issues, but every glance over the railing reminds you that the bottom floor is farther away than it used to be.
“Progress, not perfection.” A twelve-step slogan
“I will give thanks. . . .” Psalm 30:12
forethought of grief
Chances are your dog didn’t lie awake worrying last night.
“[T]he peace of wild things/who do not tax their lives with forethought/of grief.” Wendell Berry
“Do not keep worrying. . . . Your Father already knows your needs.” Luke 12:29-30
a few simple words
Sometimes the best prayer is a few simple words to say over and over again, rain or shine.
“Help, Lord, . . .” Psalm 12:1
“There are no ‘adult Christians’. . . . The higher we climb, the more childlike we are.” Peter Kreeft