God's grace meets us in messy places because messy places are all that there are.

Christianity is in no way a stoic faith. It fundamentally rejects the "stiff upper lip" school of thought.

Every time we sin in thought, word, or deed, we're essentially saying in that moment that, "I don't need you God. I don't want you God. I like my way better than your way."

...this culture of mandatory happiness actually promotes dishonesty and more suffering.

Unfortunately, some Christians are guilty of throwing out an equivalent sentiment when they play the "God is sovereign" card as a way to trump every evil that comes your way.

Performancism is the mindset that equates our identity and value directly with our performance and accomplishments.

Assurance never comes from looking at ourselves. It only comes as a consequence of looking to Christ.