My first reaction in pastoral care is not to explain. And again, I don't think the primary purpose of the Bible is to explain suffering. I never have, because the actual explanations are often inadequate. I think the primary purpose of Scripture is to say I am all you need in this suffering and I need comfort.

If you aren't serving, you're just existing, because life is meant for ministry.

There are illegitimate parents, but I don't believe there are any illegitimate children.

Remember how far you've come, not just how far you have to go.

When the Bible speaks of God's love for us and the kind of love we are to have for him and for other people, the word is always apage, signifying a commitment to act.

There is no growth if there is no change. There is no change if there is no loss. There is no loss if there is no pain.

Love pays attention. Love listens to the fears and the doubts of others and treats them with respect. Love accepts others the way Jesus accepts you.