Thursday, October 31, 2013

9 Things You Should Know about Halloween and Reformation Day

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.

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.


Christianity and the Dark Side—What about Halloween?

Christianity and the DarkSide—What about Halloween? Al Mohler weighs in on Halloween.


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 MistakesThis is a great list of common money errors noted in the Bible.

When Jesus Haunts Your Halloween

When Jesus Haunts Your HalloweenThis 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?

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.

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

11 Pieces of Advice Every Millennial Should Hear

11 Pieces of Advice Every Millennial Should HearEach 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?



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 2:16–173:1–311). 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.

I Hate Porn

I Hate Porn – You ought to read this article for you and the people you care about. 

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"?


A Prayer of Praise for Jesus’ Compassionate Heart

A Prayer of Praise for Jesus’ Compassionate Heart

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.

How Big is Africa? – This big!

How Big is Africa? – This big! - You may be surprised.

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 graceHeb. 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.

Top 25 Leadership Quotes

Top 25 Leadership Quotes - A good list in process.

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 SimpleThe 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

Will Anyone Speak Against Worldliness?

Will Anyone Speak Against Worldliness? – Even professing Christians will shoot you down for it.


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.