We just wrapped up our “Imago Vita” series on the role of imagination in spiritual transformation. In this post I share my “imago vita” and spiritual journey and yearning to become a more joyful and carefree sower of God’s Word. I have found inspiration in an AI-generated Van Gogh-style portrait of a happy sower, which symbolizes my desire to be a more joyful worker in God’s field. … More The Happy Sower
This week a PGA golfer was found dead in his home by suicide at the age of 30. He had battled depression and anxiety for years, being quite open about his struggles. I have also faced recurring bouts with depression and anxiety. I call it a “dark cloud” that occasionally settles over my thoughts and emotions, blocking out the light and leaving me in the shadows. Psalm 139 can help us through the darkness and back into the light. … More Weighty Thoughts: On Depression
When I find myself revisiting the valley of the shadow of death and making mental mud pies in the pit, the mind of my “flesh” tells me I’m in Enemy territory. The Spirit of Truth reminds me, “The light shines in the darkness.” … More Mining For God
“You’re name is NOT Jeremy!” the large, black man shouted into my ear with his thick Caribbean accent. His hands were heavy on my shoulders as he stood over me as I sat helplessly in a chair in a dim-lit room. “Your true name is Jeremiah! You are the weeping prophet!” he continued in his … More The Weeping Pastor
I’m reposting this in light of recent conversation in our Heaven LifeCourse about the nature of heaven and hell, freedom of choice, being ‘given over’ to the destructive consequences of sin, and how we are daily becoming creatures more fit for heaven and hell. -JB _________ This post is in memory of Robin Williams and a … More Cabin 16: The Neighbor’s Well
I recently preached a message from Psalm 126 which mentions “going out weeping” and “sowing in tears.” I used that message to encourage those of us who may be battling depression or facing difficult times to keep on “sowing” and “planting” even when you don’t feel like it, or when you don’t see immediate results. … More Sowing in Tears
Bethel Campus On this week of my 30th birthday I am sharing some personal journal entries that provide a window into the trials and triumphs I faced during the decade of my tumultuous 20s. I had my share of days where anxiety over the future and insecurities over the person I was becoming brought … More 30th Birthday Reflections: New Anxieties & New Peace
Jeremy L. Berg 