Category Archives: Exploration of the Self

Counting Blessings in the Middle of Difficulty

Today’s post is from IM First Officer Michael Bell. This past year has been a difficult one for me medically. In March I was diagnosed with severe sleep apnea, which for the uninformed means that I stop breathing while sleeping, for up to 90 seconds at a time, up to 60 times an hour. SoContinue reading “Counting Blessings in the Middle of Difficulty”

IM Classic: Confession

Since we’re on the subject of confession, here is a look at the subject from the personal side. Today, Chaplain Mike presents this classic iMonk post that Michael wrote in October, 2008. Some Christians love to talk about the sins of Obama or gays or the mainstream media, but get really animated when I suggestContinue reading “IM Classic: Confession”

Today’s Three Push-Button Words

Despite what you may have read in the kinder, gentler corners of the blogosphere recently, you would all be surprised how un-contentious I am most of the time. In my real life, I regularly run from situations where I’m being pressed for my opinion. I much prefer print as the medium of debate. In realContinue reading “Today’s Three Push-Button Words”

No Regrets: A Better Look At Life

Young folks in ministry. Adults living in regret. This is for you. There was a time, in the last decade, that I constantly and painfully struggled with regrets about various choices I’d made in my life. I regretted not finishing doctoral studies. (I made it 37 hours in and never finished the paper.) I regrettedContinue reading “No Regrets: A Better Look At Life”

Thoughts From The Empty Road (For Greg)

Greg is a former student and good friend. I learned today that he has left the faith. The last time I saw Greg (Not his real name), he looked like he was walking away from it all. I had a premonition at the time that Greg was troubled. He looked unsettled. I’d heard he wasContinue reading “Thoughts From The Empty Road (For Greg)”

God Isn’t Gamey: My New Hot Button

I’ve got a new hot button. I experienced it this week and I think it’s best to warn the general public that until I make some progress in sanctification, pushing this button could result in an ugly scene. (Before I say this, I know there are a bunch of books on this subject and I’veContinue reading “God Isn’t Gamey: My New Hot Button”

iMonk 101: Do You Trust The Abbreviated Jesus?

From November of ’08, one of my favorite meditations on Jesus. And you should pre-order Jared’s book. And read Ross Douthat’s column on Dan Brown. The other day a strange feeling came over me. Don’t get me wrong about what I’m about to say here. It was just a feeling. I’m not claiming any powersContinue reading “iMonk 101: Do You Trust The Abbreviated Jesus?”