Can We Help Us

Growing up in the sixties was bad enough, but to grow up in the sixties as an inter-racial kid was really bad. Th e blacks, who were already being openly hated for being black, didnt accept me because I was half white and the whites didnt accept me because I was black. No one seemed to accept me except a few from either side; and this was inside my own family. I didnt meet my mothers father until I was fourteen. I was being prepared for the real world that was all too ready to jump right in line and pick up where my family left off or may have missed a lesson or two. Why did these and more, much more happen to me? Because if youre going through hell right now or been through it; been abused; thinking of hurting yourself or someone else; thinking of suicide; thinking no one loves you or ever could; thinking no one cares; this is why I went through what you have to read in this book to believe. It was for you. Blessed be GOD, even the Father of our Lord JESUS CHRIST, the Father of mercies, and the GOD of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of GOD. For as the suff erings of CHRIST abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by CHRIST. And whether we be affl icted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is eff ectual in the enduring of the same suff erings which we also suff er: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. 2 Corinthians 1:3-6 KJV. Th erefore being justifi ed by faith, we have peace with GOD through our Lord JESUS CHRIST: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of GOD. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience: And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of GOD is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time CHRIST died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But GOD commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us. Romans 5: 1-8 KJV. And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in CHRIST JESUS. Th is is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that CHRIST JESUS came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me fi rst JESUS CHRIST might show forth all longsuff ering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on Him to life everlasting. Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen. 1 Timothy 1: 14-17 KJV. Can We Help Us? T I M O T H Y S H E P H A R D

The author is a retired Mayo Clinic eldercare specialist.

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Pastors’ wives are human. Let’s face it. Behind the welcoming smiles, gentle handshakes, and stylish dresses, they face untold challenges in their personal and church lives. Who does a first lady talk to? To whom does she tell her woes? In this inspiring and compelling book, First Lady Leisa Wynn-Johnson invites pastors’ wives to engage in candid and liberating conversations about their real lives. First Ladies, Can We Talk? is an open and honest discourse on the dynamics of church culture, church politics, and the realities of relationships between church folk, pastors, and their wives. Let’s talk about loneliness and isolation, misunderstandings, role conflicts, betrayal, rejection, depression, and criticism. And let’s talk about the tears, intense pressure to perform, and the longing to be liked. Each chapter has a scripture, a powerful prayer, and an encouraging affirmation of gratitude, confidence, family success, empowerment, and more. Whether you are young or old, quiet or vocal, a novice or expert first lady, a clergy wife, or in ministry yourself, these conversations will uplift, encourage, and guide you in your role as a mother, wife, and woman of God. Learn to navigate, communicate, and find joy in your God-ordained assignment. Let’s talk about it! -The importance of mentors and venting -How to find grace in times of increase and decline -How to manage expectations -What to do when the bough breaks