The Temptation of Isolation

The temptation of isolation is deadly wrong. -- President George W. Bush in 10th Anniversary Speech after 9/11 attacks

We really do need each other.
-- Rueben Welch

Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another -- and all the more as you see the Day approaching.
-- Hebrews 10:25 (NIV)

By Faith! In Faith! (Hebrews 11)
Grateful

Spectacular Suffering...

When we belong exclusively to God and we sense we have been hurt by people, we must choose from one of two stances:

#1: Am I mistreated by people?

or...

#2: Am I crucified with Christ?

Let's choose "crucified with Christ" because it means we are not alone in our suffering. Suffering at the hands of others can either leave us experiencing the agony of increased isolation, yes all alone, or with the awesome experience of increased intimacy with our Lord. Yes, even suffering can be called "spectacular suffering" if we embrace the Galatians 2:20 stance as our own.

Galatians 2:20 (NIV) -- I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

ALL JOY!
Grateful