Ready for some praise? Psalm 113 opens with a rousing call to praise God “from the rising of the sun to the place where it sets” (v. 3). Should the Lord be praised in Philistia? Yes, even in Philistia. Should the Lord be praised in Egypt? Yes, in Egypt. Should the Lord be praised inContinue reading “Even You Matter”
Category Archives: Relationship
Empty Pockets
God does not save us because of what we’ve done. Only a puny god could be bought with tithes. Only an egotistical god would be impressed with our pain. Only a temperamental god could be satisfied by sacrifices. Only a heartless god would sell salvation to the highest bidders.And only a great God does forContinue reading “Empty Pockets”
The Disciple’s Prayer
“Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen” (Matt. 6:13). The Disciples’ Prayer is a pattern to follow for life. The implications of the Disciples’ Prayer are profound and far-reaching. An unknown author put it this way: I cannot say “our” if I live only for myself in a spiritual, watertightContinue reading “The Disciple’s Prayer”
Seeing Children Differently
Children’s ministry is one of the biggest challenges a church can face. There’s so much to think about—facility, curriculum, check-in, security, and recruiting and training a quality team! It’s hard to know where to begin. I’ve talked with pastors who have a clear vision for preaching and worship, but children’s ministry befuddles them. One practiceContinue reading “Seeing Children Differently”
Is it wrong to be angry with God?
No. The problem comes when legitimate feelings of anger are not handled correctly and lead to inappropriate bitterness and rebellion which sometimes accompany anger. The Bible realistically portrays the frustration and anger of God’s people when things go wrong or when they cannot understand why certain things happen. This was the reason for Job’s anger.Continue reading “Is it wrong to be angry with God?”
Are People Just Pawns?
It often seems that people are caught in events beyond their control, manipulated by God or Satan. They may feel forced into situations they would not choose if they were given a chance. While this seems unfair, there is another way—a higher way—to interpret the circumstances of life. We can see them as God-given opportunitiesContinue reading “Are People Just Pawns?”
We cannot be presumptuous, ignore sin in our attitude and heart, and expect God to respond.
God hears our prayers, answers us, and blesses us. It is not because we are deserving and merit His favor but only because of His moral nature of holiness and righteousness. His attitude toward the unrighteous in verses 4-6 reveals the fact that sin is totally contrary to His nature. He does not take pleasureContinue reading “We cannot be presumptuous, ignore sin in our attitude and heart, and expect God to respond.”
Your Prayer Discipline
For this holy time of prayer, breathe deeply and allow the peace of Christ to enfold you. Luke 9:29 While he was praying his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white. Jesus was deep in prayer. So much so that his appearance changed. There was something so different about him that hisContinue reading “Your Prayer Discipline”
Your Morning Discipline
As you prepare for your time with God, pause for a few moments and relax. Take several deep breaths and be aware of the loving presence of God within you. Mark 15:37-39 Jesus gave a loud cry and breathed his last. The veil of the sanctuary was torn in two from top to bottom. WhenContinue reading “Your Morning Discipline”
Your Prayer Discipline
As you prepare for this time with God, pause for a few moments and begin to relax. Take several deep breaths and rest in the loving presence of God. Mark 6:41-42 Then, taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave themContinue reading “Your Prayer Discipline”
Intentional Faith 