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Overcoming (Part 10): Self-Pity
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsWhen things go wrong, many indulge in loneliness or despair until it becomes a melancholy mindset, a distorted way of thinking, seeing, and feeling. Those who sink into apathy often curl up in self-pity, feeding their sadness by depending on despondency for a sick sort of comfort. Self-pity is self-indulgently dwelling on one's own sorrows or trials, failing to see God at work in their lives. In contrast, the faithful patiently wait, trusting God to make things right in His perfect time, understanding that He always has their best and eternal interests at heart. Self-pity differs from pity, which is a tender feeling for another in misery or distress due to unforeseen crises. Self-pity, however, involves no repentance, while godly sorrow produces repentance. It often includes lying to oneself by excusing personal suffering for sins committed, revealing a lack of personal responsibility. This state of mind is a result of sin and incurable without repentance. Human tendency often leads to a "woe is me" reaction, feeling that suffering is undeserved. When faced with difficulties, individuals may plead for relief or escape responsibility, but such self-pity is rebuked as faithlessness. It can also manifest as a lack of mercy toward others, focusing solely on personal grievances. To combat self-pity, one must pray for God's help, rest, find a new focus, repent of sins, and take obedient action. Genuine repentance and a clear view of one's true condition, rather than a distorted one, are essential in fighting this mindset. God commands action based on obedience, not inaction driven by emotions. The ultimate cure for self-pity lies in selflessness, caring for others' welfare more than one's own. Self-pity shows faithlessness by placing oneself above the Creator God, interfering with the development of righteous character. Outgoing concern and love toward others counteract this excessive self-love. How one handles life's pressures determines whether they fall into self-pity or rise to overcome it, following the selfless example of Jesus Christ with divine help.
Discord From Self-Determination
Sermonette by Martin G. CollinsAmong the six things that God hates (Proverbs 6:16) is those who sow discord among the brethren. Discord, though effective, never has a productive purpose.
Self-Government and Responsibility (Part Two)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughOur experiences prepare us to be a better judge or king. Though we may exercise righteous judgment, we dare not pass judgment nor justify sin in ourselves.
Laying Aside Every Weight (Part Two)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeThe apostle Paul endured tremendous hardship, and his example teaches that we have the ability and responsibility to choose how we let circumstances affect us.
A Root of Bitterness (2016)
Sermonette by Bill OnisickOnly by letting go of the poisonous root of bitterness can we become like our Elder Brother, Jesus Christ, and our Heavenly Father.
The Elder Brother
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingLike the older brother in the parable, we may have looked down on those who have stumbled. We are not equipped to judge anybody else's repentance.
Anger (Part Two)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe dare not let the sun go down on our wrath. Uncontrolled anger can be a major cause of mental and physical illness. We must reconcile with our adversaries.
Baruch's Complaint (Part Two)
'Prophecy Watch' by Charles WhitakerJeremiah and his scribe, Baruch, lived during a time of great upheaval. Baruch complained that God's plans against Judah were crimping his own ambitions.
Overcoming Discouragement and Depression
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsEven loyal servants of God have had to contend with depression and discouragement. Antidotes include rest, refocus, right expectations, and obedient actions.
Elijah's Dose of Reality
Article by Richard T. RitenbaughSometimes, we get down because we think that all our labors for God have gone unnoticed. Elijah did, and his story points out a major lesson for us all.
Everlasting Consolation and Good Hope
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod's saints are not immune to depression. Job, Moses, and Elijah all felt so overwhelmed, they wanted God to take their lives.
Now Is the Time
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mark Schindler'Taking the Kingdom of Heaven by Force' has some rather dubious interpretations in the various popular commentaries.
Waiting
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe discipline of waiting is on the same level as the other spiritual disciplines, requiring substantial admixtures of faith and hope, building endurance.
Could You Stand Alone?
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWould we have the same courage to stand spiritually as the brave unarmed man who resisted the tanks of the Chinese Red Army in Tiananmen Square?
Reasons for Optimism
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughThe epilogue to Job's story reveals a lesson for us. Job's 'golden age' was before him, not behind, and the key to his optimism was his relationship with God.
The Spiritual Mark of the Beast
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughAnger and hostility, driven by self-centered competitive pride constitute Satan's spiritual mark that divides nations, ethnic groups, families, and the church.
Lamentations (Part Five)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe expressions of sorrow in the Psalms far outnumber expressions of praise, indicating that the Hebrew culture has almost made the lamentation an art form.
Themes of Ruth (Part Two): God's Providence
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAs we count the 50 days toward Pentecost, we should consider the events of our lives, coming to understand that they reveal God's on-going maintenance.
Maintaining Good Health (Part 7)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughJeremiah compares studying and meditating upon God's Word to physical eating, enabling a person to receive spiritual energy, vitality, and health.
Rejoice in What We Are (2011)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)Because we have been given revelation, we should have peace and a sense of well-being about life that would make the high-achievers of this world envious.