The Sparrow Blog
Renew Your Mind & Revive Your Soul
Have you noticed that thoughtless criticism seems so much easier to dish out than constructive feedback? For many of us, we may tend to be easily insulted and in high need of ego defense. In other situations, we’re just plain too emotional in the moment, too tired and hungry. Regardless, we are all responsible to keep a check on what we say and how we say it. It is possible to give constructive criticism! Here’s some truths that will help…
When Ahmed Best received the opportunity to be apart of a Star Wars movie he knew his life would never be the same. The outcome of the experience, however, was the polar opposite of what he had envisioned. Jar Jar Binks would become the most hated character in the history of the franchise. Today I want to take a closer look at learning how to forgive people who have hurt us. You may feel stuck in a pit of resentment and pain but you can be very, very hopeful. You can learn how to forgive!
Whether you’re alone, or are with someone but still feel alone, Valentine’s Day can be tricky for some people as they find themselves thinking how can I be happy? Hands down, this is a universal want in all humans, the desire for happiness. Struggling to find happiness? You’re not alone! Be encouraged, there is great hope!
Every couple I know wants a better relationship and nearly every couple I know will admit that they need a better relationship. Most couples know that one of the keys to a better relationship is dating, yet making space in our schedules and putting dating high on the priority list is difficult for a lot of people, especially men. Today I’m hoping to help you with great date ideas!
Like all wonderful things in life, we must be careful to be good stewards of our brains. Our minds are extremely powerful, and therefore, as Stan Lee taught us, with great power comes great responsibility. If you’re like me, you’ve had seasons in your past where you forgot to be a good steward of you self-talk and thought life. The ramifications can be devastating, but there’s good news! Your brain, with some diligent practice, can be transformed into something beautiful again!
As various people around the globe share their thoughts on Bryant and how he inspired them, I was struck by NBA commissioner Adam Silver's statement on Bryant’s passing, “He was generous with the wisdom he acquired and saw it as his mission to share it with future generations...” Those are words worth pondering.
Peter is known for putting his foot in his mouth over and over again. Out of all the dysfunctional disciples, Peter is the most famous for his blunders. Yet, for all Peter’s imperfections, he never gave up… and the Lord never gave up on him! God saw the potential in Peter, and He sees the potential in you too. He sees what you can become if you keep moving forward.
My life was dramatically challenged and changed by a brain injury and a discovery of an appreciation of birds that led to hope. It was as if the two beautiful worlds of Christian counseling and bird-watching were colliding to make an epic scene of compassion in my life. Thus was born the idea of Sparrow Christian Counseling. If you're suffering right now there's possibly something right around the corner for you as well!
The importance of confession, the fancy word for “admit”, is exceptionally significant. Not only does it allow us to improve our relationships, it can also bring a relief inside our soul that cultivates life. When we admit we’re wrong we open the door for trust and respect. Why? Because everyone makes mistakes, but not everyone has the character to admit it.