Author: Scott

I know your tribulation and your poverty (but you are rich) and the slander of those who say that they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. Revelation 2:9 While playing college football, I once took a blow to the head during a home game. I don’t remember the hit, but…
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 I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! Revelation 2:9 When I was a kid, I knew we weren’t wealthy. My father was the pastor of a church in rural South Dakota after all. He chose a life of ministry and service that was never going to make him rich – at least…
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And to the angel of the church in Smyrna write: “The words of the first and the last, who died and came to life.” Revelations 2:8 While first interviewing those struggling with addiction, I always ask how it started. When inquiring about the addict’s childhood, I often hear horrific stories of neglect and abuse. Growing…
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To the one who conquers I will grant to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God. Revelation 2:7 Every day, when I wake up, I thank God for recovery and redemption. It hasn’t always been this way though. In 2014, when I lost my job due to my opioid…
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Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. Revelations 2:5 I must confess that I find myself being quite judgmental on occasion. Recently, I was explaining to my wife my feelings towards a mutual acquaintance when realized that I felt that this person was irredeemable. She kindly…
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But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. Revelations 2:4-5 It’s not entirely fair to make blanket statements, but different physician specialties are known for their different personalities. For instance, I’d…
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I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false. Revelations 2:2 Inpatient treatment and sober housing facilities are designed to be places set apart for those struggling…
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I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. Revelation 2:2 (NIV) We recently began a weight loss challenge at our gym. A few of us could benefit from losing 10 or 20 pounds and so, we’re supposed to be keeping each other accountable with a chart on the whiteboard. This inspired me and…
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When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, “Fear not, I am the first and the last, and the living one.” Revelation 1:17-18 Working in addiction medicine, it’s not uncommon to meet those who rebel against all authority – those who seem…
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Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me . . . When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Revelation 1:12-17 In residency, I worked at three different hospitals, back in the days when we had to sign actual paper orders with an actual pen. I could…
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