For the Love of Hurting Hearts

    I've pondered quite a bit lately on an anonymous prayer request expressing a genuine struggle with personal sin. Honestly this person's transparency in their struggles convicts my heart and makes me want to commend them. So often I have observed that people are so quick to respond to the practical service of others, but so slow to ask "How's your heart?". Don't get me wrong sometimes we need practical help, but more often we need prayer to endure this broken world as broken beings. As someone who personally struggles with depression I feel a greater sense of mercy for hurting hearts. What if we were as intentional to fill hearts as we were bellies? What if we were less concerned about cultural and generational differences and focused more on the common goal of our pursuit of CHRIST? What if we were more faithful to fight for unity rather than dwell on diversity? ESPECIALLY in the church body! This world is broken and we are broken people. The realization of depravity should lead us to be more intentional to care for and pray for one another. This is my prayer and my plea- that in all circumstances the gospel would prevail. When you are striving to love someone that is hard to love with the love of CHRIST- keep striving calling to mind the love the HOLY GOD has towards you. When you know a brother or sister is struggling help them with their physical need AND ask them how you can pray for their heart, pouring truth into them. If you are someone who is suffering be honest and transparent choosing wisely who you seek council from. Brother, sister, and friend- I challenge and I plead with you to care for one another with a gospel saturated love. In a world full of division fight for unity, caring for the hearts of those around you. Serve boldly, love deeply, and press forward running your race.

     Much Love, Frances Hope