Author: Gordon Cloud
“Why Is This Happening To Me?”
“And we know that all things work together for good, to them that love God and are called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 “Why is this happening to me?” I would imagine that every one of us has asked that question at some point in our life. Things suddenly go awry and can even… Read more
A Perspective Of Suffering
“For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared to the glory which shall be revealed in us.” Romans 8:18 Our opinions and reactions are usually determined by our perspective. You know, the old, “Is this glass half empty or half full?” discussion. Our perspective is determined by… Read more
Where Is God When I’m Suffering?
I have been asked this question more than once. It’s not hard to feel alone in our suffering. When we are suffering, it is easy to feel as if no one knows or cares how we feel. Sometimes this may be true, sometimes not, but we have the promise of God that He never leaves… Read more
Something Better
Life is tough. That’s no secret to any of us, but it is a reality with which we live every day. As long as we are on earth, it will never get easier. Over the last couple of days, I have been given a strong reminder of this fact. Yesterday, my grandmother (105 years old)… Read more
Glorious Suffering
“And he said unto me, ‘My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.’ Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” II Corinthians 12:9 This is a verse that has become increasingly more significant in my life as… Read more
Jesus Is Praying For You
I don’t know about you, but the idea that Jesus is praying for me is one of the most amazing thoughts…ever. Many people have told me they are praying for me, and I appreciate every one of the people and the prayers, but to think that Jesus Himself, sitting at the right hand of His… Read more
Don’t Kid Yourself
“Let’s be honest with God.” We hear that statement a lot, and yes, it’s true, we should never be dishonest with God. It’s not like we can deceive someone who literally knows everything anyway. Trying to hide something from the Almighty is an exercise in futility, just ask Adam and Eve. The key to getting… Read more
Give Yourself Grace
In the year 2016 the state of West Virginia experienced the most devastating flood in over 1000 years. As a pastor, I was busy trying to check on church members, handle supplies and help those in our town to repair and rebuild. On top of all of that, my wife and I lost our home,… Read more
You’re Not Going Crazy
You’re not going crazy. Seriously. Just because you struggle with mental illness doesn’t mean you are “crazy,” “insane,” or any one of the other multitude of labels that often are inaccurately placed upon sickness of the mind. The truth is, mental illness comes from the same place as physical illness, the sin curse that is… Read more
The Spiritual Dilemna of Forgiveness
Years ago, though I do not remember exactly when and where, I heard a definition of grace that would cement itself into my memory. That definition stated, “Grace is the unmerited favor of God.” Grace is the action of God extending His favor in spite of the fact that our behavior had not merited… Read more