Biblical Examples of Pain

 

Throughout Scripture, God’s people faced pain:

As a Husband, Father of six, Ministry Leader, and Christ follower, I have seen my share of pain. This outline helps us see the big picture: that pain is part of life and part of our journey of faith. Pain will come, and we can count it as joy. It makes us strong and builds character. Our joy is knowing that Christ is where we get our peace in any situation. Sometimes we must be like Paul and simply back up, realize that Satan has blocked the road we planned to travel, and find a new path to the destination God has called us to. (1 Thes 2:18) Pray and seek a new path to what God has called you to today.

Here are some thoughts on this from Herbert Walker Jr. 

• Noah: ridicule
• Abraham and Sarah: barrenness
• Joseph: betrayal and prison
• Moses: leadership pressure
• Elijah: depression
• Peter: failure
• Paul: suffering

Pain has always been part of God’s people’s journey.

Even today, Christian leaders face:

• Betrayal
• Misunderstanding
• Financial pressure
• Division
• Family struggles
• Spiritual warfare

Pain is part of the calling in your life.

Pain and Joy Can Coexist

James says we can have pain and joy at the same time!

 

But Joy does not come from:

• Money
• Accomplishments 

• People’s approval

Joy comes from Jesus.

 

“Happiness" depends on circumstances...

But Joy depends on Christ.

The Role of Men in Foster Care Ministry

 

Pastor Bob Griffith, Virginia: The Role of Men in Foster Care Ministry

By Robert Griffith

When we talk about foster care ministry, men often stay quiet. Some don’t see where they fit. Others assume it’s a space for women—nurturing, caregiving, hospitality. But that narrow view doesn’t reflect the needs of children or the Church's calling.

Children in foster care need stability. They need mentors, structure, and adults who show up and stay. And they need to see men model Christlike leadership, humility, and strength.

Foster care ministry doesn’t ask every man to become a foster father. But it does ask every believer to participate in the work of restoration. That includes men.

So where do we start?

1. Be Present
Whether you’re a coach, small group leader, or neighbor, your presence matters. Children in care often lack consistent male figures. Being a steady, safe adult—even for a few hours a week—builds trust and confidence over time.

2. Support Other Men Who Foster
Foster dads face unique pressures. They need encouragement, prayer, and peer support. Offer to meet for coffee. Ask good questions. Listen without fixing. Community strengthens resolve.

3. Use Practical Skills to Serve
Are you good with tools, vehicles, or budgeting? Use those gifts to support foster families. Home repairs, tutoring teens on car maintenance, or helping with job applications are all meaningful.

4. Lead by Example in Church Culture
When men speak openly about supporting foster care, it shifts the culture. Other men notice. Young boys notice. It becomes normal, not niche.

5. Say Yes When God Asks
If you feel the nudge toward deeper involvement—respite care, mentoring, or even fostering—don’t ignore it. Ask questions. Seek counsel. And respond if God confirms.

Scripture shows men engaging in justice, compassion, and care. Joseph protected Jesus by accepting a child that wasn’t biologically his. Boaz stepped in with integrity and responsibility. Jesus himself honored children and taught men to lead through service.

The foster care system doesn’t need superheroes. It needs steady men of faith. Men who pray. Men who show up. Men who aren’t afraid to be known as protectors, mentors, or providers—not in title, but in action.

If you’ve been waiting to find your place in foster care ministry, this is your moment. Not everyone is called to the same role. But every man is called to be part of the solution.

Let that start now.

To explore foster care engagement, national dialogue, or connect with Pastor Bob Griffith’s book Fostering Jesus, visit FosteringJesus.org.

When your plans seem “Hindered”

​1Thessalonians 2:18 “We wanted very much to come to you, and I, Paul, tried again and again, but Satan hindered us.”

The word hindered means a road that is impassable. It also was used in the Greek to describe a runner in a race that elbowed the lead runner with aggression and knocked them out of the race. 

Paul had to turn around and strategize a new way to get to the Thessalonians because of the aggression and obstacles of Satan pushing him back and the people used by Satan (like the runner).

I also have seen this. But I keep praying and simply look for another path to get to where God wants me to go. Like Paul, I recognize the pushback as Satan and pray and look for another path. There is more than one path. In Jesus name! 

Helping churches Launch foster care ministry

​Www.fosteringJesus.org 

I spoke at Word of Life church about foster care ministry to help them cast vision and launch a ministry to foster kids this year! 

Your Spiritual Time each Day is the Priority

​Great reminder to keep your spiritual growth the number 1 priority in your life. It helps you stay fresh and full of the spirit and it helps encourage those that look to you for leadership.

Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.  (1 Timothy 4:16, NLT)

Calling the Church to Care for Foster Children

​Article on calling the Church to foster care ministry:

Www.fosteringjesus.org

https://www.financialcontent.com/article/zexprwire-2025-11-27-pastor-bob-griffith-of-virginia-releases-fostering-jesus-a-call-to-action-for-the-church-on-foster-care