The Scripture Passage Contradicts This Philosophy

                                                   When The Door Slams

Therefore, when Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her weeping, He groaned in the spirit and was troubled. And He said, "Where have you laid him?" They said to Him, "Lord, come and See." Jesus wept.                         John 11:33-35 NKJV 

            One of the tragedies of our Western culture is an idea that has been passed down particularly to men. It is this: if you cry, you are a sissy and you are weak. Instead be strong; be a man; be courageous and "suck up" your feelings. The Scripture passage contradicts this philosophy. In fact it shows Jesus, the most courageous man who ever lived, showing His feelings. The passage succinctly say, "Jesus wept."  

            He was real. He was free to feel. He was not ashamed of letting His feelings out, and apparently did so publicly. Jesus showed us that courage does not mean hiding our feelings or not grieving when we experience loss. 

            Grieving is normal, following a loss of any kind. It could be the loss of a family member or friend, a financial loss, the loss of a job. Whatever the loss, allow the feelings to come, and have the courage to grieve and let the tears come. It will take some time, but grieving allows us to face reality and in time, move on in spite of the loss. 

            Think about this: May God grant me the serenity to be real, and the courage to let my true feelings out.

            Thanksgiving: This poor man cried out, and the LORD heard him, And saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the LORD encamps all around those who fear Him, And delivers them (Psalm 34:6-7 NKJV).; I waited patiently for the LORD; And He inclined to me, And heard my cry. He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, Out of the miry clay, And set my feet upon a rock, And established my steps. He has put a new song in my mouth-Praise to our God; Many will see it and fear, And will trust in the LORD (Psalm 40:1-3 NKJV).         

Ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart and reveal any areas of unconfessed sin. Acknowledge these to the LORD and thank Him for His forgiveness.          

                                                        Never Rest Ministries