COC Spiritual Transformation Center

06/01/2025

The older Solomon became, the more he engaged in the age-old religious practice of what could be called “God-and-ism.” He worshiped the true God and Ashtoreth, the true God and Milcom. He built the temple for the true God and worship sites for other deities.

The technical term for this is syncretism, and sadly, it came to dominate and pollute the religious landscape of Israel for centuries.

Solomon became the wisest fool.

This king’s life parades before us some painful but necessary lessons. The most obvious is this: the chief threat to our well-being is the siren call of idolatry. When we fear something more than we fear God; when we love something or someone more than we do love God; when we trust something or someone more than we do God, then that person, institution, job, political party, or possession has become the object of our worship.

There is room in the human heart for only one Lord. Solomon tried to cram a whole passel of deities in his heart, as we still do today.

The life of this king, then, becomes a mirror we can hold up to our own lives, to ask hard questions of ourselves. And having done so, to turn to our Lord in confession and repentance. He is always ready and willing to forgive. Indeed, he delights in doing so.

We also learn from Solomon, this seeming superman, that a human being may have multiple PhDs, billions of dollars, power, and prestige, but that person is still a sinner who often acts idiotically—and is just as much in need of forgiveness and salvation as an uneducated homeless man living alone in a squalid alley.

We all stand equally in need of the mercy of God in Jesus Christ. Sin has democratized us all. Solomon needed salvation. I do. You do. All of us do.

-from my book, Hitchhiking with Prophets: A Ride through the Salvation Story of the Old Testament. Available at https://a.co/d/8oBPpqf

11/12/2024

06/08/2024

06/08/2024

06/03/2024

Fighting depression without medication is possible, but it requires dedication and a multifaceted approach. Here are some strategies to consider:

Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and other forms of talk therapy can be highly effective in treating depression. A therapist can help you identify negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies to manage them.

Exercise: Regular physical activity has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities like walking, jogging, yoga, or swimming can be particularly beneficial.

Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support your mental health. Avoid excessive consumption of sugary, processed foods, and caffeine, which can negatively impact mood.

Sleep Hygiene: Prioritize getting enough sleep each night, aiming for 7-9 hours for most adults. Establish a consistent sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and ensure your sleep environment is comfortable and conducive to rest.

Stress Management: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation. Engaging in activities you enjoy, such as hobbies or spending time in nature, can also help alleviate stress.

Social Support: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family members who can provide encouragement and understanding. Joining support groups or participating in community activities can also foster a sense of connection and belonging.

Set Realistic Goals: Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps and celebrate your accomplishments along the way. Setting and achieving realistic goals can boost your self-esteem and sense of purpose.

Limit Alcohol and Substance Use: Avoid excessive alcohol and drug use, as they can worsen depression symptoms and interfere with treatment effectiveness.

Mindfulness and Relaxation: Incorporate mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, into your daily routine to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

Stay Engaged: Even when you don't feel like it, try to stay engaged in activities and social interactions. Maintaining a routine and staying connected with others can help prevent isolation and improve your mood.

Remember that it's essential to consult with a mental health professional to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. While medication may not be part of your treatment approach, a therapist can provide guidance and support to help you navigate your journey to recovery.

05/03/2024

Recognizing the signs of depression is crucial for early intervention and support. Here are some common signs and symptoms:

Persistent Sadness or Hopelessness: Feeling down, empty, or hopeless most of the time, even when there's no apparent reason.

Loss of Interest or Pleasure: Losing interest in activities or hobbies that were once enjoyable, including socializing, hobbies, or even basic daily activities.

Changes in Sleep Patterns: Experiencing significant changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia (difficulty sleeping) or hypersomnia (excessive sleeping), even though there may be no physical cause.

Changes in Appetite or Weight: Significant changes in appetite or weight, such as overeating or undereating, leading to unexplained weight gain or loss.

Fatigue or Loss of Energy: Feeling constantly tired, sluggish, or lacking in energy, even after resting or sleeping for long periods.

Difficulty Concentrating or Making Decisions: Experiencing difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things, which can impact work, school, or daily tasks.

Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt: Feeling worthless, guilty, or self-critical, often accompanied by thoughts of being a burden to others or feelings of unworthiness.

Physical Symptoms: Experiencing unexplained physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive issues, or chronic pain that don't respond to treatment.

Social Withdrawal: Withdrawing from social activities, avoiding friends, family, or social gatherings, and preferring to isolate oneself from others.

Irritability or Restlessness: Feeling irritable, agitated, or restless, even over small or insignificant matters, which can lead to conflicts with others.

Suicidal Thoughts or Behaviors: Having thoughts of death or su***de, making suicidal gestures, or engaging in self-harming behaviors.

It's important to note that not everyone with depression will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary from person to person. If you or someone you know is experiencing several of these symptoms for an extended period, it's essential to seek professional help and support from a qualified mental health professional or healthcare provider. Depression is a treatable condition, and with the right support and treatment, individuals can recover and lead fulfilling lives.

16/01/2024

When you listen, be silent, listen is the jumbled letters of the word silent
When you listen, listen with your hEARt, your ear is in your❤️
Doing so… you’ll be able to effectively communicate
Seek to understand then be understood

12/01/2024

words of wisdom