John Piper's 8 month break

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I've just read about John Piper's decision to take an 8 month break from public ministry. I'd recommend you read more at Adrian Warnock's blog. I simply want to quote a little of Piper's own reasoning here:

 I see several species of pride in my soul that, while they may not rise to the level of disqualifying me for ministry, grieve me, and have taken a toll on my relationship with Noël and others who are dear to me. How do I apologize to you, not for a specific deed, but for ongoing character flaws, and their effects on everybody? I’ll say it now, and no doubt will say it again, I’m sorry. Since I don’t have just one deed to point to, I simply ask for a spirit of forgiveness; and I give you as much assurance as I can that I am not making peace, but war, with my own sins.

I am (again) inspired by Piper's courage and humility. Please take five minutes to pray for Piper, and for all in public ministry who are greatly grieved by their own character failings- remembering that most of us are not in a position to take such a lengthy break to do battle. And finally pray for gracious, loving and forgiving churches.