Josh McGuire - “Tales of Tears” | Austin CFC | 2025-01-26
Summary
The speaker explores when it is appropriate for a man to cry, concluding that while crying over oneself is wrong, crying for others is good. He uses Joseph's experience in the pit as an example of deep emotional struggle and endurance, suggesting that such times allow for profound reflection on life's circumstances.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
A question about men and cryingThe speaker addresses the question of whether it is wrong for a man to cry, offering different answers ranging from 'no' to 'it depends.'
When tears are not helpfulThe speaker notes that crying is wrong when it is rooted solely in self-pity or a 'woe is me' attitude.
Reflecting on Joseph's sufferingThe speaker imagines the confusion and tears Joseph likely experienced while being thrown into a pit and later sold into slavery.
The weight of past traumaAs Joseph rises to power, his brothers face the consequences of their past actions, carrying the memory of selling him into slavery for twenty years.
Joseph's inability to contain his emotionsWhen faced with his brothers, Joseph is so deeply moved that he has to leave the room to weep in private.
Tears as evidence of forgiveness and reunionJoseph's weeping upon reuniting with his brothers and father serves as a beautiful sign of reconciliation and the shared joy of God's faithfulness.
The joy of seeing repentanceWhen someone repents of their sins, it is right to feel emotion because there is rejoicing in heaven and God is changing hearts.
David's realization of sin against GodUsing David's adultery and murder as an example, the speaker explains that all sin is ultimately committed against God.
Jesus as our example in sorrow and temptationThe speaker concludes by showing how Jesus wept over the weight of death and cried out during times of intense temptation.
God turns evil intentions into goodReflecting on Joseph's reunion with his brothers, the speaker notes how God used even the evil actions of others to preserve life and bring about a good result.Genesis 50:19–20
Seeing God's goodness leads to uncontrollable emotionWhen we truly perceive God's grace and how He lifts us from the pit of sin, it naturally results in tears of praise and realization.Psalm 40:2–3
Distinguishing between godly sorrow and worldly griefUsing Paul's letter to the Corinthians, the speaker explains that godly sorrow is purposeful because it produces repentance and salvation, whereas worldly grief leads only to death.2 Corinthians 7:10
