9 Things You Should Know about Halloween and Reformation Day - Halloween and Reformation Day, a secular and a religious holiday, exist uncomfortably side-by-side on the calendar. Here are 9 things you should know about the October 31 holidays.
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Jesus Saves
Jesus Saves - Christianity is summed up in these words: Jesus came to seek and save the lost. If we were asked to describe in a sentence the heart of the gospel, there it is.
Halloween: Trick or Treat
Halloween: Trick or
Treat – We associate Halloween with ghosts, devils and darkness. This video
offers a different take.
Halloween: Trick or Treat? from 10ofthose.com on Vimeo.
The Gift of Fasting
The Gift of Fasting – “Fasting” isn’t usually a word that
conjours up ideas of blessing. In western cultures, it’s more associated with
hair shirts, self-flagellation, and shaved heads. In the Protestant church, we
look at it more as a tool to refocus. But it’s a whole lot more than that.
Coffee in Heaven?
Coffee in Heaven? - Randy Alcorn addresses the question many people really want to know about heaven. The answer does lead to bigger issues to consider.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Halloween Roundup
Halloween Roundup – With Halloween upon us, and more
controversial for Christians than ever in light of the cultural fascination
with vampires, werewolves, witches, and zombies, I thought it might
be helpful to post a variety of articles on Halloween from divergent
perspectives. I do not agree with every one, but think they are
helpful to see the various perspectives on this ghoulish celebration.
5 differences Between Catholic Theology and the Gospel
5 differences Between Catholic Theology and the Gospel - With
Reformation Day this week, it is a good time to remind ourselves of what
exactly the differences are between the Roman Catholic Church and Protestants. We
often hear people say that we really believe the same things. Is that true?
Here are five significant differences between Roman Catholic theology and the
Gospel of grace in the Bible.Three Tips for Discipling Your Kids Through Halloween
Three Tips for Discipling Your Kids Through Halloween - Because this holiday can be a complicated one to disciple
your children through, here are three tips to help you lead well during this
season.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Why We Must Love Unlovable Church Members
Why We Must Love Unlovable Church Members - Sometimes I need to love and sometimes I'm the unlovable.
9 Things You Should Know About Persecution of Christians in 2013
9 Things You Should Know About Persecution of Christians in 2013 - Christians are the single most widely persecuted religious group in the world today. As we pray for the persecuted church, here are nine things you should know about the plight of believers around the globe...
A Prayer of Restoration to Gospel Sanity and Peace
A Prayer of Restoration to Gospel Sanity and Peace - If you are "news weary" this prayer may bring just what you need for today.
Family, the Original Small Group
Family, the Original Small Group – Timothy Paul Jones writes, “In
my research for the book Family Ministry Field
Guide, I found that only one-third of churched parents read or
discussed Scripture with their children at least once a week. If that’s the
predominant pattern, it seems unlikely that the typical teenager in an
evangelical church would identify his or her parents first as teachers of God’s
Word.”
Monday, October 28, 2013
"One-Anothering"
"One-Anothering" - This phrase describes the activity of the early church very well.
Our History | FBC Allen
Our History | FBC Allen - Our church celebrates its 135th birthday this month. This video tells some of the church's great story.
Three Core Dimensions of Unity
Three Core Dimensions of Unity - Our unity in Christ with each other is
an imperfect reflection of the perfect unity experienced by God the Father, God
the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, but it’s what Jesus intends for us as
Christians. Unity within our churches is essential, and there are three
core dimensions to it.
Reflections on Money Mistakes
Reflections on Money Mistakes –
This is a great list of
common money errors noted in the Bible.
When Jesus Haunts Your Halloween
When Jesus Haunts Your Halloween – This is a great
devotional thought on this week when many focus on Halloween. Jesus captures
the day.
Verbal Backspacing
Verbal Backspacing – Wouldn’t it
come in handy when you need to take back a thoughtless word or comment?Sunday, October 27, 2013
Three Prayers for Facing Monday
Three Prayers for Facing Monday (Or Any Tomorrow) – Get the right focus for
the day and watch for what God can do.
8 Lessons from the Life of John Knox
8 Lessons from the Life of John Knox – Knowing a little church history is a good
thing.
Friday, October 25, 2013
Satan’s Permission to Sift You like Wheat
Satan’s Permission to Sift Youlike Wheat - “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded permission to sift
you like wheat” (Luke 22:31). Did Jesus ever speak more startling words to
Peter? Surely all of the Twelve were within earshot of Jesus’ words and would
be attacked by the devil but, as their leader, Peter was addressed by name and,
most obviously, singled out by the Evil One. Just as Satan would
succeed—temporarily—in scattering the disciples by striking down the Chief
Shepherd, so he would succeed, but only temporarily, in striking down Peter.
Stop Saying Size Doesn’t Matter
Stop Saying Size Doesn’t Matter - 94% of churches are losing ground
against the population growth of their communities. In 2050 the percentage of
the US population attending church will be half of 1990. Here are some points
to ponder…
The Down-to-Earth Gospel for Parenting
The Down-to-Earth Gospel for Parenting - Good, biblical words for parents at all stages of parenting.
A Prayer for Repenting of Arrogance about Grace
A Prayer for Repenting of Arrogance about Grace - A powerful prayer on a timely topic in our world. One line reads, "Forgive us when we talk more about what obedience isn’t, that what obedience is."
Seven Perspectives on Prayer from Randy Alcorn - Blog - Eternal Perspective Ministries
Seven Perspectives on Prayer - Randy Alcorn provides simple, powerful perspectives on prayer.
Thursday, October 24, 2013
The "Why" and "How" of Basic Internet Safety at Home
The "Why" and "How" of Basic Internet Safety at Home - This is a topic worth visiting and revisiting.
A Game Plan for New Disciples
A Game Plan for New Disciples – What do we do with someone who has just
become a Christian? Having a game plan helps us to make disciples and fulfill
the great mission that Jesus has given us. Here are a few instruments Jesus
gives us so we can help new believers grow and give them more joy.
What Did Jesus Mean When He Said We Would Do Greater Work Than He Did?
What Did Jesus Mean When He Said We Would Do Greater Work Than He Did? – This is a big question and R.C.
Sproul provides some possible answers.
4 Reasons the Gospels Could Not Be Legends
4 Reasons the Gospels Could Not Be Legends - “The most
popular theory today against the Bible is that the gospels are a bunch of myths
and legends. As the theory goes, Jesus was a great guy with some commendable
teachings, but the stories we have about him in the four gospels are made-up
legends intended to beef up Christianity’s claims.” Here are 4 reasons that
just can’t be the case.
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
United Methodist Church’s Court to Discuss Opposition to Anti-Homosexuality Policy
United Methodist Church’s Court to Discuss Opposition to Anti-Homosexuality Policy – Pray for our friends in the
United Methodist Church as church leaders determine what they really believe
about the Bible.
18 Things I Will Not Regret Doing With My Kids
18 Things I Will Not Regret Doing With My Kids – Tim Challies did a good job with this list and I can “amen” them
all.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
11 Pieces of Advice Every Millennial Should Hear
11 Pieces of Advice Every Millennial Should Hear – Each of these
things would be true for most of us well beyond the Millennial stage of life.
8 Benefits of Forgiving Others
8 Benefits of Forgiving Others - The most painful experience in
life is being seriously and deliberately harmed by someone else. What do we get
out of forgiveness?
Is God a Pacifist?
Is God a Pacifist? – “Everyone knows the Bible says “Thou shalt not
kill”—or does it? The sixth commandment is one of the most well-known of the
Ten Commandments, but also one of the most misunderstood and misused.”
A Model of How to Speak to Mormons about Common Concerns of Religious Liberty and Yet Eternal Differences
A Model of How to Speak to Mormons about Common Concerns of Religious Liberty and Yet Eternal Differences - An interesting article about Al Mohler's address at Brigham Young University.
God’s Infinite Wisdom Is Displayed in Bringing Good Out of Evil
God’s Infinite Wisdom Is Displayed in Bringing Good Out of Evil – “God’s infinite
wisdom then is displayed in bringing good out of evil, beauty out of ashes. It
is displayed in turning all the forces of evil that rage against His children
into good for them. But the good that He brings about is often different than
the good we envision.”
Monday, October 21, 2013
What the Church Can Learn from Chick-fil-A
What the Church Can Learn from Chick-fil-A –
“For the Cathy family, it goes
deeper than closing on Sundays, playing Christian music, and putting “glorify
God” in the corporate purpose statement. For decades, they have tried to apply
the biblical worldview and ethic not just to the surface, but to press it into
the culture of the chain, not only in the dining room but behind closed doors.”
Doubts: Fatal or Futile?
Doubts: Fatal or Futile? – Most
all of us face doubts from time to time. This article notes, “These types of
doubts, spiritual in nature, have the ability to unmoor a person. Doubts like
these often serve as the doorway towards deeper issues like depression,
paralyzing fear, and chronic anxiety.” How do we deal with doubts?
Sunday, October 20, 2013
A Businessman - A Man of God
R.G. LeTourneau – A good short account of the life of a
godly businessman.
Saturday, October 19, 2013
Four Keys to Satisfying Your Starving Soul
Four Keys to Satisfying Your Starving Soul -
If we’re honest, we’re all
hungry. We’re starving for something to sustain us, to preserve our hope, to
strengthen us through trials, to help us conquer sin. We’re starving for food
that will fill us for the everyday fight of faith. But what does the fight look
like? And how do we find the food we need?
Friday, October 18, 2013
3 Ways to Stop Stressing About Giving
3 Ways to Stop Stressing About Giving – The article addresses three
common hang-ups that can be easily overcome.
Why Did God Forbid One Tree in Eden?
Why Did God Forbid One Tree in Eden? – Of the many trees in the Garden, God banned
Adam and Eve from eating from one — just one (Genesis
2:16–17, 3:1–3, 11). Why?
Miserable Counselors
Miserable Counselors – Just a reminder about giving helpful (or unhelpful)
counsel to the people in our lives.
Adoption was Not God’s ‘Plan B’
Adoption was Not God’s ‘Plan B’ - Commenting on Ephesians 1:5, J. Stephen Yuille writes,
Regrettably, many people tend to view the adoption of a child as an
afterthought: “Oh, you couldn’t have your own children, so you decided to
settle for adoption.” Having adopted, I would never describe it as ‘settling.’
I would never refer to it as an ‘afterthought.’ In terms of God’s adoption of
us, he definitely wasn’t settling. God didn’t create the world in the hope that
he would have natural children—only to discover that he had a bunch of little
rebels on his hands. He didn’t throw his hands into the hair (anthropomorphism
intended), crying, “Oh no, what will I do now? What are my options? I suppose I
could always adopt!” No. God ‘predestined’ us for adoption. He did so before
the foundation of the world. That necessarily means his adoption of us isn’t
plan B, but plan A. Moreover, it means that his adoption of us is the
revelation of his eternal will.
China Relentless in Persecution of House Churches
China Relentless in Persecution of House Churches – We need regular
reminders to pray for the persecuted church around the world. “Washington,
D.C. (ICC) -- A recent spate of attacks against Christians and house
churches in China underlines the country's relentless habit of persecuting
Christians, even at the cost of its own reputation in the international
community.”
A Prayer for Raising Our Kids by Grace
A Prayer for Raising Our Kids by Grace - This is a prayer for parents - who often take too much credit and take too much blame. It's all by grace.
Look & Live (Worship or Die)
Look & Live (Worship or Die) –
This is a strong word on our worship. It’s a lot more than our usual, casual
approach.
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Five Ways We Should Forgive
Five Ways We Should Forgive – Some in our
culture advocate forgiveness, but it is not biblical forgiveness. Why do we
really forgive, and how do we put Christlike forgiveness into practice in real
life?
What Young Christians Can Learn from the Elderly
What Young Christians Can Learn from the Elderly - Depending on which category you are in (or think you are in) don't miss these opportunities.
Some Quick Tips on Spiritual Growth
Some Quick Tips on Spiritual Growth – Erik Raymond writes, “If you
do these things and are in a church that preaches the Bible and emphasizes
discipleship and fellowship then I have no doubt you will grow.” The first one
begins, “Forbid that you go to bed at night without…”
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Fasting—It's About Time!
Fasting—It's About Time! - God has been stirring my heart in relation to fasting in recent days and toward leading our church in a prayer and fasting focus. It's a good article.
New Research: Bad Choices Burden Americans
New Research: Bad Choices Burden Americans – Many Americans are weighed down by the burden and
regret of past mistakes.
The Beauty of Boring Testimonies
The Beauty of Boring Testimonies - Do you think your story of giving your life to Jesus is too ordinary? Just know, it's incredible.
The FAQs: The Debt Ceiling
The FAQs: The Debt Ceiling - Perhaps this will help answer questions about our current national financial situation. It's a big deal.
Three Reasons the American Church is Ignoring Christian Persecution
Three Reasons the American Church is Ignoring Christian Persecution – “While
our gazes are set elsewhere, people are being tortured, displaced, and killed.
American churches need to wake up to the suffering of their global brothers and
sisters.”
A Review of O'Reilly's Killing Jesus
A Review of O'Reilly's Killing Jesus – Here is a simple, sound review of
the book. It makes good points about the content.
How JFK Changed Religion in America
How JFK Changed Religion in America - As the fiftieth anniversary of John F. Kennedy's death gets closer, “the media will focus on Kennedy's face-off with the Soviet Union in Cuba, his remarkable eloquence, and his enduring political significance. One area that will likely receive less attention is his enormous relevance to our religious self-understanding.”
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
Does Your Church Have Enough Outcasts?
Does Your Church Have Enough Outcasts? – Why our churches
need to reach out to modern-day Samaritans. Who are your "Samaritans"?
The Central Claim of Jesus
The Central Claim of Jesus - “In Western culture, Jesus of Nazareth remains the ultimate Rorschach test. Authors, common folk, popes, and skeptics have all looked at the shape of his life, ministry, and teachings and reached different conclusions about what it all means.” Many have missed the meaning…
Continuous Partial Attention
Continuous Partial Attention - If you are not familiar with this phrase, you should be. It so describes our times.
God is Faithful
God is Faithful – As
we face those long term prayer requests and challenges, it is just good to be
reminded…He is faithful.
Monday, October 14, 2013
A Reason to Be Really Offended
A Reason to Be Really Offended - If you’ve never tasted the cross as
offensive, you’ve missed something essential.
The Difference Between Punishment and Discipline
The Difference Between Punishment and Discipline – “Just as God marvelously designed the human body to heal a
broken bone, so He has equipped the body of Christ with all that is necessary
for every member to be involved in the process of restoring broken parts
damaged by sin.”
Unlike the Internet, Jesus Remembers Your Sin No More
Unlike the Internet, Jesus Remembers Your Sin No More – What do Miley Cyrus, Robin Thicke, and the latest celebrity scandal have
to do with your sin and Jesus’ salvation? More than you think.
The Best Way to Start Your Everyday
The Best Way to Start Your Everyday – An encouraging word from God’s
word in Psalm 143:8.
The Thumbtack of Faith
The Thumbtack of Faith – Faith sees the world as it actually is. Faith
sees the beauty. Faith sees the glory. Faith sees the art, the story, the
goodness, and yes, faith sees the evil in the face of it all and knows that
something has gone wrong and we have all become part of the problem.
Stereotyping Is Out of Step with Jesus
Stereotyping Is Out of Step with Jesus - It is an ongoing issue in our country and we need to consider our role.
A Friend of Sinners and No Friend of Sin
A Friend of Sinners and No Friend of Sin - The gospel...if we are talking about the true gospel–works through repentance and relationships.
Falling on Deaf Ears?—Why So Many Churches Hear So Little of the Bible
Falling on Deaf Ears?—Why So Many Churches Hear So Little of the Bible - “It
is well and good for the preacher to base his sermon on the Bible, but he
better get to something relevant pretty quickly, or we start mentally to check
out.” That stunningly clear sentence reflects one of the most amazing, tragic,
and lamentable characteristics of contemporary Christianity: an impatience with
the Word of God.”
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 13 of 13)
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 13 of 13) – I came upon this
spiritual inventory of questions in Ronnie Floyd’s book, The Power of Prayer and Fasting. A “yes” to any of the inventory questions
reveals a need for confession of sin.
Each day, over the next several days, I’m going to share one of the
inventory focus points. I invite you to join me in this spiritual journey. Ask
God that His Holy Spirit would search you with His holiness and reveal to you
any sin. Journal what God is teaching you each day. We’ll see where God leads.
13. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble,
whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely,
whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is
anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. (Philippians 4:8, NKJV). Do
we enjoy listening to conversation that hurts others? Do we pass it on? Do we
believe rumors or partial truths, especially about an enemy or a competitor? Do
we choose to spend little or no time each day allowing God to speak to us
through His word?
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 12 of 13)
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 12 of 13) – I came upon this
spiritual inventory of questions in Ronnie Floyd’s book, The Power of Prayer and Fasting. A “yes” to any of the inventory questions
reveals a need for confession of sin.
Each day, over the next several days, I’m going to share one of the
inventory focus points. I invite you to join me in this spiritual journey. Ask
God that His Holy Spirit would search you with His holiness and reveal to you
any sin. Journal what God is teaching you each day. We’ll see where God leads.
12. Even so you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inside you are
full of hypocrisy and lawlessness. (Matthew 23:28, NKJV). Do we know in our
hearts that we are often not what people see? Are we possibly hiding behind
being active in our churches as a cover for our activities away from the body
of Christ? Are we mimicking the Christian faith or social status, acceptance in
our church or our community? Are we real?
A Prayer for Healing from Grace Allergies
A Prayer for Healing from Grace Allergies - It's a prayer we need to pray.
The Grace of Repenting To Your Kids
The Grace of Repenting To Your Kids - Wouldn’t it be great if the topic of repentance came up and your
children responded, “Repentance? Yeah, we do that all the time in my family.”
Friday, October 11, 2013
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 11 of 13)
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 11 of 13) – I came upon this
spiritual inventory of questions in Ronnie Floyd’s book, The Power of Prayer and Fasting. A “yes” to any of the inventory questions
reveals a need for confession of sin.
Each day, over the next several days, I’m going to share one of the
inventory focus points. I invite you to join me in this spiritual journey. Ask
God that His Holy Spirit would search you with His holiness and reveal to you
any sin. Journal what God is teaching you each day. We’ll see where God leads.
11. Bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a
complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.
(Colossians 3:13, NKJV). Have we failed to forgive those who may have said or
done something to hurt us? Have we written off certain people as not worthy of
our friendship?
The Loving Intolerance of God
The Loving Intolerance of God - Tolerance. The modern, cultural elite praise this virtue in every school setting, media outlet, and job training workshop. There seems to be no truer way to love another person than to fully accept everything about them. Christians have often joined the tidal wave of this mainstream value and often long to be known for their acceptance of others' opinions and lifestyles. On the surface it seems to be a positive virtue, one that exemplifies the life of the Christian.But have you ever considered that tolerance is never encouraged in the Bible?
Love God with Your Everything
Love God with Your Everything - Some have tagged the Supreme Command of Deuteronomy
6:5 the “all-command,” because of the three-fold “all” — “You shall
love the Lᴏʀᴅ your God with all your heart and with allyour
soul and with all your might” (ESV). There is no room here for
divided affections or allegiance. As Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters”
(Matthew
6:24). If indeed there is one God who stands supremely powerful and
valuable (Deuteronomy 6:4), this demands a supreme and total loyalty
from you and me, a loyalty that starts with the heart.
How to Humbly Give and Receive Correction
How to Humbly Give and Receive Correction –
This is a helpful, biblical article on a tough topic.
20 Tips for Personal Devotions in the Digital Age
20 Tips for Personal Devotions in the Digital Age - These are excellent encouragements for a productive time with God each day.
Three Lessons for Cross-Cultural Evangelism
Three Lessons for Cross-Cultural Evangelism - These principles hold true internationally and in cross-cultural evangelism in our diverse community.
How to Mourn Over Your Sins
How to Mourn Over Your Sins - Spiritual mourning is laden with blessing and we are to go after it and get as much of it in our lives as we possibly can. The more you know of this mourning, the more joy you will experience in your life.
Thursday, October 10, 2013
A Prayer for Grace-Strengthened Hearts
A Prayer for Grace-Strengthened Hearts - It is good for our hearts to be strengthened by grace. Heb. 13:9
9 Things You Should Know About World Hunger
9 Things You Should Know About World Hunger - You need to know even though you really don't want to.
Help Comes from the Lord
Help Comes from the Lord – Do the
troubles of life ever leave you so wiped out physically, mentally, and
emotionally that all you can do is squeak out “God, help me!”? Then Psalm 121
is for you.
Obstacles to Personal Devotions
Obstacles to Personal Devotions - David Murray lists
eighteen obstacles to personal devotions in the digital age. The list is
right on target for struggling Bible readers.
Feeling Shame Is Not Repentance
Feeling Shame Is Not Repentance - A good word with illustration from The Screwtape Letters.
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 10 of 13)
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 10 of 13) – I came upon this
spiritual inventory of questions in Ronnie Floyd’s book, The Power of Prayer and Fasting. A “yes” to any of the inventory questions
reveals a need for confession of sin.
Each day, over the next several days, I’m going to share one of the inventory
focus points. I invite you to join me in this spiritual journey. Ask God that
His Holy Spirit would search you with His holiness and reveal to you any sin.
Journal what God is teaching you each day. We’ll see where God leads.
10. Beloved…abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul. (1
Peter 2:11, NKJV). Are we guilty of a lustful eye toward the opposite sex? Do
we fill our minds with sexually oriented Internet sites, television programs,
lewd movies, unsavory books and magazines? Their covers? Centerfolds?
Especially when we sense no one is watching? Do we indulge in lustful
activities that God’s word condemns, such as fornication, adultery, or
perversion? Do we have relationships improperly on the Internet? Do we enter
“chat rooms” we do not need to be in? Are we engaged in pornography in any way?
Are we practicing gambling or betting or playing the lottery in any way?
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 9 of 13)
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 9 of 13) – I came upon this
spiritual inventory of questions in Ronnie Floyd’s book, The Power of Prayer and Fasting. A “yes” to any of the inventory questions
reveals a need for confession of sin.
Each day, over the next several days, I’m going to share one of the
inventory focus points. I invite you to join me in this spiritual journey. Ask
God that His Holy Spirit would search you with His holiness and reveal to you
any sin. Journal what God is teaching you each day. We’ll see where God leads.
9. Not slothful in business. (Romans 12:11, NJV). Are we chronically
late in paying our debts, sometimes choosing to not pay them at all? Do we
charge more on credit cards than we can honestly afford to pay? Do we neglect
to keep honest income tax records? Do we
engage in shady business deals? Do we inflate our financial worth? Do we get in
business partnerships with unbelievers?
Why You Can't Pit Jesus Against His Bible
Why You Can't Pit Jesus Against His Bible - The argument comes up regularly and sounds really spiritual. The idea presented is that all we need to do is what Jesus said (red-letter version) and we can discard or override the rest - such as some of Paul's harder sayings or the Old Testament. This article explains why that approach can't work.Meet the ‘Nominals’ Who are Drifting from Judaism and Christianity
Meet the ‘Nominals’ Who are Drifting from Judaism and Christianity – “Meet
the ‘Nominals’ — people who claim a religious identity but may live it in name
only. They’re proud — but not practicing — Catholics. They’re Protestants who
don’t think Jesus is essential to their salvation. And they’re Jews who say
they belong to the tribe by way of ancestry or culture, not religion.”
A Prayer for the Worried Mom’s Heart
A Prayer for the Worried Mom’s Heart – Good words
on dealing with worry for moms, dads, and a of other people.
How Pornography Works: It Hijacks the Male Brain
How Pornography Works: It Hijacks the Male Brain – This article is a review of findings in Wired for Intimacy:
How Pornography Hijacks the Male Brain by William M. Struthers. It’s
an epidemic and we need to understand it.Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Keep On Praying
Keep On. Praying.- This is a good challenge to pray with perseverance. Don't give up on those hard prayer requests.
Evangelism in the Workplace
Evangelism in the Workplace - A good testimony and article on sharing Christ effectively in the workplace.
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 8 of 13)
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 8 of 13) – I came upon this
spiritual inventory of questions in Ronnie Floyd’s book, The Power of Prayer and Fasting. A “yes” to any of the inventory questions
reveals a need for confession of sin.
Each day, over the next several days, I’m going to share one of the
inventory focus points. I invite you to join me in this spiritual journey. Ask
God that His Holy Spirit would search you with His holiness and reveal to you
any sin. Journal what God is teaching you each day. We’ll see where God leads.
8. Do not…give place to the devil. (Ephesians 4:26-27, NKJV). Do we
close our eyes to the possibility that we may be a landing strip for Satan when
we open our minds to him through ungodly practices, psychic predictions, occult
literature, and violent, sex-driven, sexually perverted movies and DVDs? Do we
seek counsel for daily living from horoscopes in the paper, on television, or
on the Web rather than from God, our true and ultimate source for living? Do we
let Satan use us to set up barriers that inhibit the cause of Christ in our churches
and in our homes through criticism and gossip?
Monday, October 7, 2013
It’s Just Complicated — And Very Simple
It’s Just Complicated — And Very Simple – The Christian life can be so complex — and oh
so very simple.
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 7 of 13)
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 7 of 13) – I came upon this spiritual
inventory of questions in Ronnie Floyd’s book, The Power of Prayer and Fasting. A “yes” to any of the inventory questions
reveals a need for confession of sin.
Each day, over the next several days, I’m going to share one of the
inventory focus points. I invite you to join me in this spiritual journey. Ask
God that His Holy Spirit would search you with His holiness and reveal to you
any sin. Journal what God is teaching you each day. We’ll see where God leads.
7. Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth. (Ephesians 4:29,
NKJV). Do we use language that fails to edify others, tell off-color jokes or
stories that demean another person’s race, habits, culture? Do we condone these
comments when guests are in our home or when our colleagues share them with us
at work? Do we curse?
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 6 of 13)
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 6 of 13) – I came upon this
spiritual inventory of questions in Ronnie Floyd’s book, The Power of Prayer and Fasting. A “yes” to any of the inventory questions
reveals a need for confession of sin.
Each day, over the next several days, I’m going to share one of the
inventory focus points. I invite you to join me in this spiritual journey. Ask
God that His Holy Spirit would search you with His holiness and reveal to you
any sin. Journal what God is teaching you each day. We’ll see where God leads.
6. Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is
in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? (1 Corinthians
6:19, NKJV). Are we careless with our bodies? Do we defile our bodies with
unholy sexual acts? Do we overeat? Do we take care of our bodies? Do we desire
to be physically fit?
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Jesus - The Killer of Comfort
Jesus - The Killer of Comfort - Jesus wants to kill
our comfort and give us a life full of the Father’s will.Making God the Center of Congregational Worship
Making God the Center of Congregational Worship - A simple reminder that worship is about God.
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 5 of 13)
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 5 of 13) – I came upon this
spiritual inventory of questions in Ronnie Floyd’s book, The Power of Prayer and Fasting. A “yes” to any of the inventory questions
reveals a need for confession of sin.
Each day, over the next several days, I’m going to share one of the
inventory focus points. I invite you to join me in this spiritual journey. Ask
God that His Holy Spirit would search you with His holiness and reveal to you
any sin. Journal what God is teaching you each day. We’ll see where God leads.
5. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away
from you, with all malice. (Ephesians 4:31, NKJV). Do we complain, find
fault, argue? Do we nurse and delight in a critical spirit? Do we carry a
grudge against believers of another group, denomination, or theological
persuasion because they don’t see the truth as we see it? Do we speak unkindly about
people when they are not present? Do we find that we’re often angry with
ourselves? With others? With God? Are we in harmony in all of our relationships? Am I willing to let it go and start over
again? Am I right with everyone?
Friday, October 4, 2013
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 4 of 13)
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 4 of 13) – I came upon this
spiritual inventory of questions in Ronnie Floyd’s book, The Power of Prayer and Fasting. A “yes” to any of the inventory questions
reveals a need for confession of sin.
Each day, over the next several days, I’m going to share one of the
inventory focus points. I invite you to join me in this spiritual journey. Ask
God that His Holy Spirit would search you with His holiness and reveal to you
any sin. Journal what God is teaching you each day. We’ll see where God leads.
4. I say…to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly
than he ought to think. (Romans 12:3, NKJV). Are we overly proud of our
accomplishments, our talents, our families? Do we have difficulty putting the
concerns of others first? Do we have a rebellious spirit at the thought that
God may want to change us and rearrange our thinking? Do we brag or boast to
others about what we have? Do we swell up with pride when we receive
compliments?
A Prayer about Old Pain and Fresh Forgiving
A Prayer about Old Pain and Fresh Forgiving - There is freedom in forgiveness and forgiving.
Two Is Better Than One—Who Knew?
Two Is Better Than One—Who Knew? – It shouldn’t be surprising when God’s plan for our lives proves
to be the path of wisdom. A new study provides evidence.
Stuart Robinson’s 8 Point Interpretation of Genesis 3:15
Stuart Robinson’s 8 Point Interpretation of Genesis 3:15 – Interesting sermon applications on the
first Gospel note in the Bible.
Thursday, October 3, 2013
Miley Cyrus: America's Social Conscience?
Miley Cyrus: America's Social Conscience? - Miley Cyrus has been in the news almost daily the last few weeks. In a recent interview, in spite of her own lack of moral compass, she accurately called out a nation's hypocrisy in all things morality. Jim Denison weighs in here on the discussion.
Three Reasons the American Church is Ignoring Christian Persecution
Three Reasons the American Church is Ignoring Christian Persecution - While our gazes are set elsewhere, people
are being tortured, displaced, and killed. American churches need to wake up to
the suffering of their global brothers and sisters. We must commit to pray and
advocate for the millions of Christians under attack around the world. In the
face of such oppression, silence is not an option.
All Kinds of Gluttons
All Kinds of Gluttons - Gluttony
is a heart issue, it’s not just overweight people who are sinning here. There
are all sorts of ways to be gluttonous while maintaining a socially acceptable
figure.
Manhood in the Marketplace: Pouring Your Life into Others
Manhood in the Marketplace: Pouring Your Life into Others - Most jobs require us to interact with others, working as a team to achieve stated objectives. How we approach this
interaction provides us with an opportunity to demonstrate the Gospel actively
working in and through our lives. Inventory of the Heart – (Part 3 of 13)
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 3 of 13) – I came upon this
spiritual inventory of questions in Ronnie Floyd’s book, The Power of Prayer and Fasting. A “yes” to any of the inventory questions
reveals a need for confession of sin.
Each day, over the next several days, I’m going to share one of the
inventory focus points. I invite you to join me in this spiritual journey. Ask
God that His Holy Spirit would search you with His holiness and reveal to you
any sin. Journal what God is teaching you each day. We’ll see where God leads.
3. You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you
shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the
end of the earth. (Acts 1:8, NKJV). Have we been hesitant to thank God for
the miracles He has performed in our lives? Have we believed it’s good enough
to live our Christianity in a casual manner and that it’s not all that
important to share the good news of our deliverance with others? Are we sharing
the gospel? Are we involved in advancing the message of Christ in our region,
in America, and across the world?
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Anatomy of a Servant’s Heart
Anatomy of a Servant’s Heart – In
spiritual leadership, the way up is down, and the way to greatness is the path
of service.
Muslim Scholar Cites 'Five Myths About Jesus'
Muslim Scholar Cites 'Five Myths About Jesus' - Dr. Reza Aslan is making headlines again. And again, "scholar" may be a stretch. Jim Denison responds to the "Five Myths".
Failure to Live on Mission Is a Worship Problem
Failure to Live on Mission Is a Worship Problem – Why don’t we share our faith? It’s not a knowledge
problem. It’s a love for God problem.
Why Our Kids Don't Need the "Little g" Gospel
Why Our Kids Don't Need the "Little g" Gospel - A good thought for children...and the parents who raise them.
Inventory of the Heart (2 of 13)
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 2 of 13) – I came upon this
spiritual inventory of questions in Ronnie Floyd’s book, The Power of Prayer and Fasting. A “yes” to any of the inventory questions
reveals a need for confession of sin.
Each day, over the next several days, I’m going to share one of the
inventory focus points. I invite you to join me in this spiritual journey. Ask
God that His Holy Spirit would search you with His holiness and reveal to you
any sin. Journal what God is teaching you each day. We’ll see where God leads.
2. Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we
ask or think, according to the power that works in us. (Ephesians 3:20,
NKJV). Do we shy away from attempting to do things in the name of our heavenly
Father because we fear we are not talented enough? Do feelings of inferiority
keep us from our desire to serve God? When we do accomplish something of merit,
do we choose to give ourselves, rather than God, the glory?
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Some Thoughts on Pope Francis
Some Thoughts on Pope Francis – Russell Moore
comments on some of the more recent confusing statements from Pope Francis.
When a Private Act Sends a Public Message
When a Private Act Sends a Public Message (It gets complicated) – Al Mohler
writes about the choices we make and the messages they send in the context of
Former President H.W. Bush’s participation in a same-sex marriage that made
news last week.
Inventory of the Heart (1 of 13)
Inventory of the Heart – (Part 1 of 13) – I came upon this
spiritual inventory of questions in Ronnie Floyd’s book, The
Power of Prayer and Fasting. A “yes” to any of the inventory questions
reveals a need for confession of sin.
Each day, over the next several days, I’m going to share one of the
inventory focus points. I invite you to join me in this spiritual journey. Ask
God that His Holy Spirit would search you with His holiness and reveal to you
any sin. Journal what God is teaching you each day. We’ll see where God leads.
1. In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus
for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NKJV). Do we worry about anything? Have we
forgotten to thank God for all things, the seemingly bad as well as the good?
Do we neglect to give Him thanks for our breath, our health, and for life
itself?
5 Reasons God Makes Us Wait
5 Reasons God Makes Us Wait – We don’t like to wait but God is
intentionally working in our lives in those times.
9 Lessons for New Christians . . . And Old Ones
9 Lessons for New Christians . . . And Old Ones - These should be obvious but they are all good reminders.
The Marks of a Biblical Friend
The Marks of a Biblical Friend – What does it mean to be a friend? This
short list is a good challenge and measure.
Shift Your Marriage into High Gear
Shift Your Marriage into High Gear – The authors write, “None of our
family and friends prepared us for the winding road of marriage with all its
difficulties among the joys. We still would have gotten behind the wheel, but
at least we'd have prepared for the curves.”
Grace Unplugged: Trusting God with a Prodigal Child
Grace Unplugged: Trusting God with a Prodigal Child – A good testimony
and encouragement to struggling parents.
Proclaim the Timeless Gospel in a Timely Manner
Proclaim the Timeless Gospel in a Timely Manner – Alvin Reid writes, “Evangelism
is not just the pastor's job. It is the responsibility of every believer.”
College Students Divided on God, Spirituality
College Students Divided on God, Spirituality – This article from USA Today shares results of a
recent survey.
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