Conversations Concerning Us

Prior to entering into my thoughts I should preface this writing with a little background. Suffering is not something new in the world nor am I a stranger to mild forms of it. I have had to put my body through tough things and have had deep emotional scars due to the untimely deaths of many people I have worked with or considered friends. With that said, I see my life's sorrows and pains as but miniscule blips on the radar of some of my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, who have endured much for our Lord. Which leads me to this terrifying thought (which I am sure many will be able to relate too, especially in the west). Some of you reading this may be familiar with the Voice of the Martyrs, a ministry started by Dr. Richard Wurmbrand to speak for/ support those who suffer for the faith (if you are not I encourage you to look into this ministry and husband/ wife duo). There are Christians out there (I am aware suffering is not just a Christian thing but is relevant for me and m

              So, the "pensées" series continues with this idea, the pride of life. This topic is coming from my personal life and thoughts and has plagued my mind for some time now. This is not directed at any particular individuals but rather at myself in hopes that my experience (and, in this case, failures) can help direct those who read this.             To ground this discussion, I want to provide a Scripture reference, 1 John 2:15-17, which states, " 15 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.  16 For   all   that is   in   the   world—   the   desires   of the   flesh,   the   desires   of the   eyes,   and   the   pride   of   life—   is   not   from   the   Father   but   from   the   world.   17 The world is passing away, along with its desires; but whoever does the will of God remains forever ." The portion highlighted in red is the portion that has plagued me for some time. Firstly,