FORGIVENESS DOES NOT EQUAL TRUST | Forgiveness has nothing to do with what a person deserves. Which is what grace, mercy, and forgiveness are all about. None of us deserve these things. Trust, on the other hand, has a great deal to do with what a person deserves (e.g., “worthy” of trust). Perhaps that is why we have the word “trustworthy,” but there is no such word as “forgiveworthy.” --from Mark's new book on Forgiveness & Trust (coming soon!) Continue Reading
Forever Grateful (Personal Counseling Story)
LIFE CHANGING COUNSEL | My first session with Mark was right after lunch and I remember walking into his office and seeing his Bible open on his desk. I remember thinking that he must have been reading it on his lunch break. To my surprise as I began telling him my story, he constantly referred to it. He knew verses that applied to almost everything I told him. He knew exactly where they were, and most he knew by heart. Throughout my counseling sessions, the Bible was integral to all that we Continue Reading
15 Fundamental Factors For Fulfilling Forgiveness
EXCERPT FROM MARK'S NEW BOOK ON FORGIVENESS | We all have been and will be sinned against and hurt by others. This, in turn, will damage our relationships. Therefore, being able to realize true, full forgiveness is one of the most important things in life, not to mention relationships. However, when it comes to forgiving one another, some people seem to succeed more, or struggle more, than others. Why is that? There are several pivotal elements which potentially hinder our forgiveness—or Continue Reading
California Marriage Conference
Marriage is potentially an ongoing source of many blessings. However, the reality is that marriage can also be hard, very hard. Far too many people struggle, and even fail, when it comes to their marriage. So what, exactly, makes the difference between those who overcome and are blessed, and those who fall short in reaping peace and joy? So much hinges on this one thing: how well we know and live according to God's design for marriage. Not only did God create us, He created marriage. Continue Reading