Nothings hurts like...

And, you are not alone.

Hey friend,

I know what it's like to hear the voice of God in times of worship, and I know what it's like to feel the sting of rejection inside a faith community. My life's best and worst seasons are all linked with the church.

In my years of pastoral ministry, I have talked to many people (too many people) who carry deep wounds because of things they experienced in church and by church people. My interaction with them and my own experiences have taught me that there's no hurt like church hurt.

In this week's podcast episode with Cheryl Nembhard, we discuss the enemy's tactics and how to speak the truth to lies. Cheryl leads off with a story about being abused by a Sunday school teacher and how those actions created fertile ground for the enemy to plant lies to keep her separated from God.

My relationship with church began here - Belknap, IL United Methodist

Cheryl shared how this person's misconduct gave birth to deep insecurities, which led to destructive behavior and self-sabotage. These behavioral choices grew out of an evil act in an environment that should have been safe -- the church. The enemy took advantage of every wound he could, but God's love and grace for Cheryl were greater than any of the enemy's plans against her.

I'm a pastor. I love the church. I believe the local church is the answer to every hurt in this world. But, I also know we, the church, get it wrong all the time. If you've experienced this kind of hurt, please know you're not alone. I've been there, and many, many others have been there, too.

Please, don't give up on faith communities, and don't give up on God. Grieve what you need to grieve, but don't allow the enemy an opportunity to set up camp. Call out to God and allow Him to begin to untangle the hurt inside your heart.

I encourage you to listen to Cheryl's call to action as she invites us to keep standing against the enemy who prowls around in hopes he can find someone to devour. (1 Peter 5:8)

Peace,

PS I love hearing from you, and I respond to every message.

In episode #84, author, speaker, podcaster, and social justice advocate Cheryl Nembhard talks about the work of the enemy in our lives and ways we can fight back. Click here to watch or listen to the conversation.

Would you like to study the verse of the week with us?

A live session and a study guide are linked below

Teaching Sessionon 1 Peter 5:8

Study Guideon 1 Peter 5:8

I am delighted to be a voice in this conversation on what it means to have a "living hope" in these turbulent times. The focus is on 1 Peter 1:3 and Cheryl Shumake hosts the conversation.

I'm Co-Leading a Bible Study for Ministry Leaders

In 2022, my ministry friend, Jenni Elwood, and I are leading a study for writers, speakers, and ministry leaders. We will talk about how to navigate the tricky waters of platform-building. Both of the co-authors of the study, "Influence," Kate Motaung and Shannon Popkin, will attend a session to answer questions and offer encouragement.

Registration is Free and Classes via Zoom Begin January 11th!!

All are welcome to participate. For more information or to register, email Angie at [email protected].

Are You A Writer?

What if you were able to suddenly create a life where you not only looked forward to writing each and every day, but a life where you actually have the time and ideas to write, and could build a following of readers hungry for what you’re writing? And then, what if you were actually able to turn writing into a business?

I have been a member of the Red House Writers Collective for a little over a year now, and it has has helped me focus my message and improve my craft. Even more importantly for me, it has brought into my life a group of loving, supportive colleagues and mentors.

The Red House Writers Collective membership is 50% off through January 6 by using the code CHECKIN. If you're are looking for fellowship, accountability, and training, I encourage you to learn more by clicking here.