When God Shapes Who We Become

On Second Thought There are passages in Scripture that make us stop mid-sentence. Sometimes it is because the promise is so beautiful that it takes our breath away. Other times it is because the warning is sobering enough to make us pause and search our hearts. Revelation 21:8 is one of those passages. It listsContinue reading “When God Shapes Who We Become”

Set Free to Stand Firm

Thru the Bible in a Year Walking through Romans 4–7 today, we are brought face-to-face with two of the most central realities of Christian life: justification (Romans 4–5) and sanctification (Romans 6–7). Whenever I come to these chapters, I’m reminded that Paul is not giving us abstract theology—he is giving us the architecture of ChristianContinue reading “Set Free to Stand Firm”

Not So Quiet Time

James 1:21-25 Most Christians are taught early on to incorporate a devotional time into their day. This typically includes Scripture reading and prayer, both of which are essential for spiritual growth. But occasionally we should evaluate what effect this practice is having in us. In other words, we should ask, Is my quiet time accomplishingContinue reading “Not So Quiet Time”