Doing the easy thing makes you popular. Doing the hard thing makes you a leader.

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.

Temptation always starts in your mind, not in circumstances.

I forgive. First, because I've been forgiven by God. Second, unforgiveness makes me miserable. And third, I'm going to need more forgiveness in the future. So we don't forgive for their benefit. We actually forgive for ours.

Jesus has not promised to build your ministry; he has promised to build his church.

Frankness is not a license to say anything you want, wherever and whenever you want. It is not rudeness.

Ever feel like God is a million miles away? The truth is, he's not. Whatever struggle you're going through, you can rest assured you're not alone. You have God in your corner.