The Struggling Christian

Starting September 13, I will be teaching a class at Trinity Baptist Church called The Struggling Christian.  This post is designed not only to summarize the class but, more importantly, to help brothers and sisters in Christ.

The Struggling Christian is not a class title that will draw a crowd.  American Christian culture does not encourage admitting struggles in a group setting.  A "God helps those who help themselves" mentality wrongly promotes self-reliance and gives the appearance that everything is going well.  To gather together for a class that reminds us, "in this world you will have trouble" (John 16:33)  and we have "a strong tower" that provides safety (Proverbs 18:10).

It is my prayer that our church (Trinity) and the church will help followers of Christ struggle well and help others struggle well. 

This class and future posts will help those asking the following questions and more.  You may be the one asking the question(s), or you may be trying to help someone else.  

• Why do we struggle as believers?
• Are struggles and suffering the same thing?
• What do I do if I am struggling in my spiritual growth?
• How do I deal with people I am struggling with?
• I feel like I am alone in my struggle as a parent, as an adult child of aging children, or a person hurt by the church.  How do I handle these struggles and isolation?
• Why is church often the last place people go to when they are struggling?
• How can I be a better helper to those who are struggling?

While I plan to post some of the lesson notes here, most of the learning and growth will happen through Christ-centered discussion and prayer.  

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