Author Archives: Intentional Faith

Am I a Godly Mom?

The wise counsel of a pastor to prioritize love (1 Cor. 13:1) resonates with the responsibilities of motherhood. This article explores biblical principles for holy parenting, emphasizing personal holiness, serving, submitting to God’s plan, embracing suffering, discipline, understanding the heart, seeking God’s gifts, and relying on His Word for guidance.

By His Touch

In Matthew 8:1-3, Jesus’ boundary-crossing mercy and divine compassion are evident as he heals a leper, challenging societal norms. This theme of God’s inclusive love is reflected in other biblical narratives. The passage compels believers to actively engage in societal reconciliation, embodying Christ’s compassion. Insights from Keener and France provide cultural and theological depth, and the narrative resonates with Jesus calming the storm, showcasing His authority over chaos and offering hope in times of turmoil. These narratives empower believers to trust in God’s willingness to intervene and to stand firm in spiritual warfare through prayer, community support, and a deep understanding of Scripture.

Make Me Clean

Matthew 8:1-3 is set in a time of societal and religious complexity. Jesus’ willingness to touch and heal a leper challenges established norms, emphasizing radical inclusivity and redefining the boundaries of community. Understanding the historical and cultural context enriches the passage, urging believers to embody compassion and courage. The passage showcases Jesus’ divine authority, compassion, and challenges readers to reflect on the inclusivity of faith. Comparing with Mark 1:40-45 provides thematic and narrative linkages, offering broader theological insights and encouraging a more inclusive and compassionate approach to ministry.

We Shouldn’t Run

Aaron Renn’s essay, “The Three Worlds of Evangelicalism,” stirred diverse reactions for categorizing evangelical history into periods. His book, “Life in the Negative World,” expands on strategies for evangelical survival in a culture suspicious of their beliefs. Despite some criticisms, Renn’s approach and insights provide a timely and valuable resource for American evangelicals facing a changing cultural environment.

A Godly Mother’s Prayer

The Bible highlights the immense value of mothers. Eve, Moses’ mother, Mary, and Hannah embody godly motherhood. Hannah’s prayer reveals qualities of a godly mother: extolling God’s holiness, explaining divine mysteries, exclaiming God’s salvation, and expecting God’s supremacy. These truths apply to all, showing our need for God’s saving grace. Happy Mother’s Day!

As the Day Begins

The passage from Matthew 8:1-3 depicts Jesus’ compassion as he cleanses a man with leprosy, breaking societal barriers. This profound encounter illustrates Jesus’ willingness to heal and restore dignity, inspiring us to embody similar compassion and trust in His transformative power. May we carry this assurance and open-hearted approach throughout our day.

As the Day Ends

This reflection delves into Proverbs 31:28-31, praising a virtuous woman’s impact and urging self-reflection on embodying similar virtues. It emphasizes nurturing, integrity, and faith in daily actions, urging prayer for strength and guidance. The closing thought emphasizes seeking a life in line with these virtues as guardians of peace at night.

If Only He Had Hope

Byung-Chul Han, a non-Christian philosopher, expresses concern over the loss of narrative in modern culture, criticizing the de-narrativization of time and the world’s materialistic perspective. He attributes this malaise to digital technologies and the overwhelming influx of information. However, he fails to provide a strong solution and overlooks the Christian narrative as a source of true meaning and purpose.

A Cashless Society?

The rise of a cashless society and its connection to biblical prophecy is a controversial topic. While some fear a one-world government and persecution of Christians, others believe it is an economic issue. The mention of the mark of the beast in Revelation was likely directed at a specific historical context and should not lead to unfounded fear. Instead, the focus should be on living a life of love and sharing the Christian gospel.