T.D. Jakes, one of America’s most popular and influential preachers, is exhorting people to hug themselves. On Nov. 6, 2022, he preached, “The courage you need to survive must come from within you. When it doesn’t come from around you, it must come from within. [Say to yourself,] ‘I’ll encourage myself; I’m taking myself out to dinner. I’m gonna be my valentine. You’re not going to help me. I’m gonna be my own valentine.’ If the kids don’t bring you no roses, get yourself some roses. If they don’t send you no card, get yourself a card. Encourage yourself! I want you to do something right now. I want you to throw your arms around yourself and hug yourself. I want you to rock from side to side and say, ‘I got you; I got you.’ In the season you are in your life, hug yourself and say, ‘I got you. I got you.’ You’re gonna get through this” (Jakes, “Stop Living in Limbo,” Nov. 6, 2022). “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves…” (2 Timothy 3:1-2).
(Friday Church News Notes, December 2, 2022, www.wayoflife.org, fbns@wayoflife.org, 866-295-4143)
