Penetrating The Darkness

What untapped strategies for handling depression might have mitigated symptoms if only I had implemented them earlier in life? What decisions could have softened the intensity of symptoms or resulted in fewer episodes of depression? Here are  my reflections.  ...

Does studying and memorizing promises in God's Word usually prevent the onset of a depressive episode? No. Does "preaching Bible promises" to myself suddenly cause the despondency to disappear? No. Can I throw a verse at this malady and "Poof!" my spirit...

How does the power of God show? Recently, I watched a Facebook video showing extreme gyrations and fast dancing of people during a church service. One fellow, as he banged a tambourine against his side, kept going in circles while balancing himself on one leg....

Have you ever been emotionally attached to a place? The house in which you grew up? Your hometown or state? The college campus where you met your spouse, identified a direction for your life and formed lifelong friendships? Your first home with your spouse, where...

We've all been hurt by someone breaking a promise: A grown child assured you she'd call you every week, but she seldom does. Your supervisor insisted you'd receive a promotion and a raise, but neither occurred. A friend broke your confidence and told others what...

Farley Powell  (May 27, 2007--August 16, 2023) Here's my tribute to Farley, consisting of four slice-of-life memories that revealed his specialness. As you read, sift through your mind for special memories of the dog you loved and lost.   Sensitive Comforter...

Special Bulletin from the Christian Chronicle Dr. Terry Powell, Professor Emeritus in Church Ministry at Columbia International University, stood trial yesterday for three charges. According to the District Attorney’s office, the charges are “inexcusable” for a...

There's a beneficial, fruitful response to a period of depression that I've discovered late in life. It isn't a medicine or supplement, though those benefit some sufferers. I'm not referring to one of the four primary means of  God's grace I've tapped into that...

Are you a layperson who's consistently involved in various venues of service for the Lord? Are you a vocational Christian worker? A pastoral staff member, missionary, counselor or parachurch staffer? As you engage in your spheres of service, do you sometimes feel...

A Story In 2014, in a large public venue, I gave a testimony of how my faith in Christ sustains me through recurring bouts of depression. After pinpointing symptoms through a series of anecdotes covering a two-decade span, I illustrated how three primary means of...

Reflections on Then...and Now How has your thinking about life, relationships and ministry changed over the years? If you're like me, you wish that your current viewpoints on things would have crystallized when you were younger, when there was more time left for...