hope

THE VOICE

George Forbes 2010

 Missionary statesman Dr George Forbes tells that a phenomenon of recent years has been the multiplied reports of the ‘voice in the night’ speaking to Muslims.

In contrast to stories of apparitions and spirits these reports have been very specific, constant and detailed. There have been literally thousands of reported dreams and visions of devout Muslims, including many Imams, Mullahs and Sheiks who have seen ‘Isa’ and heard him speak to them. (more…)

BEYOND DEPRESSION

Charles Schwab

Charles Schwab, having served as a staff associate pastor for lengthy periods in two major churches, shares from experience:

The ‘D’ word – Depression – is extremely relevant to Christians today! Depression is real, and the church needs to face that reality appropriately.

‘Mental illness and Christians’ is a subject that continues to pop up in the media both secular and Christian. Last year it was sad to learn that Matthew Warren, youngest son of Saddleback’s high profile mega-church pastors Rick and Kay Warren, had taken his own life after a long struggle with unrelenting depressive illness. Interestingly reports indicated he had received the best medical, counselling and pastoral support available.

Later, Matthew’s grieving father Tweeted caring supporters, ‘Grieving is hard. Grieving as public figures, harder. Grieving while haters celebrate your pain, hardest.’

Beyond the fact – Positive care stemming from understanding
The church and Christians have often failed to understand depression and how to deal with it. Consequently there are some shocking and demeaning views held by people who ideally should be able to show positive care, understanding and help towards the mentally afflicted. So often, for various reasons, this has not been the case.

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NOAH, JESUS and NEW BEGINNINGS

Robert and Maureen McQuillan write:

Seen the movie Noah yet? It has attracted much attention everywhere. Good casting, very creative, well thought out, full of godly righteous principles and attention-gripping all the way.

But it’s Hollywood style and only a little biblical, like DeMille’s Bible-inspired The Ten Commandments. Diehard ‘black and white only Christians’ eyebrows have been raised and it’s felt that ‘far too much artistic licence has been taken.’ Any who dare suggest believers should see the movie have been slammed. (more…)