These two words — we thirst — sum up the human condition as well as any I can think of. More than just our body’s physical need for refreshing water, we thirst deep down in our souls too. To be human is to experience longing, the desire to be full and complete. We thirst for…
Read moreTag: Social Issues
Overcoming Alcohol Addiction
What does alcoholism look like, and what can the alcoholic do? by La Shawn M. Barber Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler. And whoever is led astray by it is not wise (Proverbs 20:1). The Bible is full of warnings against drunkenness. Alcohol, like a faithless lover, titillates and seduces but brings…
Read moreAlcoholism – The Family Disease
Allowing the truth to set you free. by Yvonne L. Tears coursed down my cheeks. Why didn’t he call or come home? How could he say he didn‘t remember where he’d been? My chest constricted, pain like a knife stabbing into my heart. What’ve I done wrong? He must not love me. If he did,…
Read moreEscape From a Nightmare
The darkest shame finds the brightestlight of God’s healing power. by Pete Riley as told to Carol McGalliard I lived in a nightmare. I was studying to become a minister but knew I was being hypocritical: I was a sex addict. It was depressing and horrible knowing what was right and being powerless to…
Read moreLiving Water
Discovering the true Fountain at the end of self-effort. by La Shawn M. Barber Five beers in under an hour — a new record. I’d lost count of the number of beer cans hidden under my bed. When I reached down for one that was full and still cold, all the cans fell over….
Read moreLearning From Scars
His blood — not ours — bringsfreedom from harmful habits. by Shelbie Mae For weeks I had tried to ignore the scars and open cuts on my sister’s arms and legs, but they stuck out like molehills burrowed into smooth grass. When a knock sounded on my bedroom door, I knew it was she….
Read moreI Just Couldn’t Say No
What would one drag on a joint hurt? by Jason Gomez as told to Christy Heitger-Casbon I glanced at my watch: 6:55 p.m. I couldn’t believe there were only five minutes left in youth group. For as far back as I could remember, I’d been connected to these people. Flashbacks of retreats, church lock-ins,…
Read moreHidden Shame: The Growing Problem of Sexual Addiction
Understanding the past and patterns of a secret sin. by Carol McGalliard The final strains of the wedding processional ring through the sanctuary. A radiant bride gazes into the eyes of the beaming groom and vows that she will “love, honor, and cherish this man . . . in sickness and health, for better,…
Read moreFreed From Bulimia
Seeking help from the perfect God for our imperfections. by Kaylie Biggs as told to Karen Whiting One of my mother’s friends prayed over me while I grew inside the womb. Her prayers worked: I arrived a healthy baby girl after a C-section. Unfortunately, due to poor choices later in life, I didn’t stay…
Read moreFinding Father
Reconnecting with vital relationships. by Alicea Jones Tall, thin, and decided, he anchored our home and gave us a sense of completion. We held Daddy in awe; he taught us the Twenty-third Psalm, about God being our shepherd and walking with us even through death. He was a dreamer, and we dreamed right along…
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