Comments on: Packaging Versus Product

By: Brad Powell

Brad Powell — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 16:06:08 +0000

What a sad reality…that people, even in their desperation, carefully package and protect their image. While it’s unproductive to blame ourselves or carry guilt, it is a great reminder of our need to care enough to make an attempt to see and get beyond the surface of one another’s lives. Thanks for the encouragement, John.

By: RSA

RSA — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 16:34:23 +0000

I couldn’t help but notice that when Coach was pouring out his heart (something most people will not do) the guy listening to him mouthed the common psychobabble of our day: “I hear you…I understand where you are coming from…” Then he proceeds to tell Coach that Coach’s unique actions are causing people to disrespect him. Great counsel, friend of Job!

On the other hand, when the other guy talks to Coach he reaffirms the value of Coach, tells him to not give in to the negative, and to “trust” that things will work out.

Which one do we tend to do? What would Jesus Do?

By: Brett Glover

Brett Glover — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 03:36:51 +0000

Great Post, This man is but one of many who chooses to create a projected self-image in order to protect his real self from the pain of rejection. We have a choice to either find love and accepts in the grace of God. Which allows us to be humble and feel God’s love and acceptance. Or create an image. God’s perfect love casts out all fear of rejection! My most recent posts on Hypocrisy the grace killer! relates to Brad’s Blog http://bit.ly/9DfRZJ

By: cherilans

cherilans — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 20:26:50 +0000

Great example, Brad, of how we hide ourselves from others to varying degrees mostly because of past hurts and not wanting to admit weakness. Over the years, I have learned to recognize this “tough-guy” packaging and found that many a Dragon Slayer who, after careful listening, encouragement, support and friendliness, finally do open up, express who they really are and allow me to help them. It can take a LONG time but persistence and major prayer really works!
Though they’re open to the help/support in their emotional and material needs, there is usually a sticking point on their part when it comes to accepting help/support in their belief in the Gospel, whether it be to first believe or to grow in their faith in God. I have learned to be gentle with it ; to live it as an example and gradually express my beliefs with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Speaking directly to them about it doesn’t seem to work for me and I find they avoid me/push me away. Humor helps, of course, and your example has been great!
I have known a person like this for the last 5 years. They still have no interest in being supported/helped or in knowing the Lord – still the Dragon Slayer – the Independent. I know God doesn’t want me to give up so I persist in praying and showing them God’s love. I am counting on God, the Holy Spirit, to do the rest, as Bob said, “on His schedule”. I continue to have faith that “nothing is impossible with God” and that one day, they will see the Light. Your views of this comment are welcome!

By: bob burnside

bob burnside — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 15:13:01 +0000

Pastor,I’ve spent a lot of time sitting at twelve step recovery tables,so many “coach” types in these groups,ME included.Through this discovery by attending these meetings I recognize the poor choices/thinking,etc.It can be humbling.I laugh now,The Dragon Slayer,ME- not so….I do try to reach out to the coaches ,it’s a facade ,however God has His way of humbling them on His schedule.

By: Faces our kids put on « Kevinvandyken's Blog

Faces our kids put on « Kevinvandyken's Blog — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 02:01:59 +0000

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By: John Carl

John Carl — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 01:39:32 +0000

This is great. Favorite post yet.

A man I chatted with a handful of times at our local coffee shop committed suicide yesterday. That, of course, left many of us wondering, “How could we have made more of an effort?” This is a great reminder…