J. P. Moreland is a poster child for intellectually savvy and deeply conservative evangelicalism. He is brilliant–stunningly so. I have learned a lot from him over the years. I was listening to his talk on YouTube, entitled “On the Promises and Problems of Petitionary Prayer” (2013). He said things that perfectly align with my vision for
What does prayer look like with an uncontrolling loving God in the aftermath of mass shootings? First, let me share some traditional petitionary prayers that are often prayed after such incidents: “I pray for the victims, families, and first responders.” “God, be with the families of those shooting victims.” “Pour out your grace
A man came into my office to speak with me about difficulties he was having with concentration. He was also struggling with anxiety and suffering from insomnia. After a brief conversation, I asked him if he took any solace in faith or spirituality. His demeanor changed instantly. His face started to flush. With an angry
MENTAL HEALTH & THEODICY: YOUR BELIEFS ABOUT GOD MATTER Beliefs about God matter. What we believe about God, and in particular God’s role in the midst of suffering, has potent spiritual and psychological consequences. As a pastor and licensed therapist, I have worked with countless emotionally hurting people who struggle in their relationship with God,
