Saturday, December 27, 2014

What Kind of a Thing Is the Bible?

What Kind of a Thing Is the Bible?As you begin reading through your Bible in 2015, here are some helpful understandings to guide your experience.

Tuesday, December 23, 2014

The Unexpected Lessons of Your Nativity Scene

The Unexpected Lessons of Your Nativity Scene -  A few things we can learn from the circumstances of Jesus'
birth.

Christmas in a Minor Key

Christmas in a Minor KeyThinking through the familiar story of A Charlie Brown Christmas.

An Advent Prayer: When Holidays Are Hard

An Advent Prayer: When Holidays Are HardA good word for dark days.

And Them That Mourn — Celebrating Christmas in the Face of Grief and Death

And Them That Mourn —Celebrating Christmas in the Face of Grief and DeathIs Christmas also for those who grieve? Such a question would perplex those who experienced the events that night in humble Bethlehem and those who followed Christ throughout his earthly ministry. Christmas is especially for those who grieve.

A Christmas Prayer by Robert Louis Stevenson

A Christmas Prayer by Robert Louis Stevenson –

Loving God, Help us remember the birth of Jesus,
that we may share in the song of the angels,
the gladness of the shepherds,
and worship of the wise men.
Close the door of hate
and open the door of love all over the world.
Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting.
Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings,
and teach us to be merry with clear hearts.
May the Christmas morning make us happy to be thy children,
and Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts,
forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.

– Robert Louis Stevenson

Monday, December 22, 2014

Read the Entire Bible in 2015

Read the Entire Bible in 2015 Here are some helpful encouragements and resources for reading through the Bible in 2015. 

When God Gives You an Overcrowded Christmas

When God Gives You an Overcrowded Christmas - For many, the last few days before Christmas are rarely peaceful. 

Joy to the World: A Christmas Hymn Reconsidered

Joy to the World: A Christmas Hymn Reconsidered – While "Joy to the World" is primarily sung at Christmas, it's not about the incarnation. Rather, the song tells the story of Christ’s return—his second coming. 

Let’s Rethink Our Holly Jolly Christmas Songs

Let’s Rethink Our Holly Jolly Christmas Songs - We have a rich and complicated and often appropriately dark
Christmas hymnody. We can sing of blessings flowing “far as the curse is
found,” of the one who came to “free us all from Satan’s power.”

The Story of Pain and Hope Behind “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day”

The Story of Pain and Hope Behind “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” – It is a story of personal struggle and of hope.

Glory to God in the Lowest

Glory to God in the Lowest – Christmas…in all it’s glorious simplicity.

Why Jews Wrote Some of Our Most Beloved Christmas Songs

Why Jews Wrote Some of Our Most Beloved Christmas Songs - This is an interesting article and a good Christmas challenge.

Friday, December 19, 2014

Christmas Is the Greatest Mystery

Christmas Is the Greatest Mystery - The Word became flesh (John 1:14).

Going Home for Christmas? Honor Mom and Dad

Going Home for Christmas? Honor Mom and Dad

5 Lessons I Learned in Youth Group That Turned Out to be True

5 Lessons I Learned in Youth Group That Turned Out to be TrueA few important things church taught us as teens that still hold true.

12 Days of Christmas: 7 Ways to Make a Difference

The Important Things Church History Taught Me About Christmas

The Important Things Church History Taught Me About ChristmasWhat church tradition shows us about celebrating the coming of Jesus,

Praise We Didn’t Plan

Praise We Didn’t Plan“We have this new-creation redemption Jesus has accomplished, but this old-creation setting in which we’re left to live.”

The Weight of Perfection in Marriage

The Weight of Perfection in Marriage - A good perspective on healthy marriage.

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

3 Christmas Pitfalls for Parents

3 Christmas Pitfalls for Parents – “It’s Christmastime again, and if you’re a parent you may be having familiar conversations about gift-giving, consumerism, and the cross. Discipling children through the Christmas season is challenging.”

Is it Ridiculous to Believe in a Literal Adam and Eve?

Is it Ridiculous to Believe in a Literal Adam and Eve? - It is no less sensational than any of the common theories we hear BUT creationism has purpose behind it.

The Dumbest Thing I Ever Said

The Dumbest Thing I Ever SaidThis article focuses on the real challenge of living the Christian life “devoted” to one another.

Free Bible Study Tools

Free Bible Study Tools – Jacob Gerber shows where to find and how to use some helpful and free Bible study tools.

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Don't Be Proud of Your Busyness

Don't Be Proud of Your Busyness – We wear worry as a badge of honor, but it actually just hurts us.


8 Reasons for Leaders to Give God a Blank Check

8 Reasons for Leaders to Give God a Blank Check - Chuck Lawless writes, “I have been a follower of Jesus for a
long time, but the “blank check” image is still stretching me. In fact, few
exhortations have been as thought provoking to me. Below are eight reasons why
the “blank check” call is both necessary and challenging for me as I strive to
be a leader in God’s work. Perhaps the image will likewise challenge you.”

The Darkness of Christmas

The Darkness of Christmas - Whatever darkness you face this Christmas, it is not the final word in your life. 

5 Questions to Ask Before You Say ‘I Do’A few ways to prepare for a marriage, not just a wedding.

5 Questions to Ask Before You Say ‘I Do’ - A few ways to prepare for a marriage and not just a wedding.

Monday, December 15, 2014

Prayer, Dependence, and Our Unhindered Access to God’s Throne

Prayer, Dependence, and Our Unhindered Access to God’s ThroneRandy Alcorn has an encouraging word for us in our prayer struggles.

Moses Without the Supernatural — Ridley Scott’s “Exodus: Gods and Kings”

Moses Without the Supernatural — Ridley Scott’s “Exodus: Gods and Kings” – This review, by Al Mohler, would be good to read either before or after you see the movie.  Here’s one of his lines, “The best single line analysis of the movie and its failure to garner either critical acclaim or more viewers was offered by Eric D. Snider of GeekNation: “This big dud isn’t blasphemous enough to be outrageous, emotional enough to be inspiring, or interesting enough to be good.”

Friday, December 12, 2014

24 Hours of Prayer




We are so excited to join together, next weekend, with other churches in our area for a 24-hour prayer experience. In light of the current events taking place in our nation, we are answering the only way we know how, through prayer. Our friends at ONE Church have extended an invitation to our entire community to join us next Friday and Saturday (from 7p - 7p) as we meet at their church campus to pray for our country, county, community and churches. Join us as we stand together for change, on our knees. 

Click here to select the time (1-hour increments) you would like to meet to join us in prayer.

Thursday, December 11, 2014

Thursday, December 4, 2014

Is Jesus a Christmas Idol?

Is Jesus a Christmas Idol? - “When asked if Christmas is primarily a religious holiday,
only 39 percent of young adults in America agree.  When asked what they're
looking forward to during the holidays, 69 percent of us point to time with
family and friends; only 11 percent cite religious reflection and services.”

Martin Luther King’s Response to “You Can’t Change the Heart Through Legislation”

Martin Luther King’s Response to “You Can’t Change the Heart Through Legislation” – “It may be true that the law cannot change the heart but it can restrain the heartless.”

Make This Christmas Unforgettable for Your Children

Make This Christmas Unforgettable for Your Children (One Simple Tip) - Kids learn to love what brings their parents delight.

Persecution Update: Somalia

Persecution Update: SomaliaSomalia is not only one of the most corrupt countries on the planet, but it is also ranked as one of the worst persecutors of Christians—second only to North Korea. 

Evil Spirits and Electricity Problems

Evil Spirits and Electricity Problems I found this to be an interesting article and perspective.


Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Monday, December 1, 2014

A Prayer for Orienting Our Hearts During Advent

A Prayer for Orienting Our Hearts During AdventThere will be plenty of tugs away from Christ this season. How can we focus our hearts on Him?

Have You Heard the Church’s Story?

Have You Heard the Church’s Story?Included in this article is this great definition of the local church, “The local church is a community of Christians who live as the on-the-ground expression of the supremacy of Jesus by advancing his gospel in distance and depth.”


Be an Advent Gift of Encouragement

Be an Advent Gift of Encouragement – It is always appropriate and needed.

Friday, November 28, 2014

10 Reasons to Be Thankful

10 Reasons to Be Thankful - You may have missed a few of these in your times of thanks.

Complaints or Thanks?

Complaints or Thanks? - Paul David Tripp provides this assessment to measure your thankfulness.



THANKSGIVING
ASSESSMENT


  1. Do you
    find it easier to complain than to give thanks?
  2. Are
    you easily irritated and quickly impatient?
  3. Do
    mundane hassles get under your skin?
  4. Would
    the people who live nearest to you characterize you as a thankful person
    or a complaining person?
  5. Do you
    look at your world and find many reasons to complain because things aren’t
    going your way?
  6. Do you
    look at your world and find yourself blown away at the many reasons you
    have every day to give thanks?
  7. Do you
    view yourself as one who has been constantly short-changed and neglected?
  8. Do you
    view yourself as one who has been showered with blessings?
  9. How
    often do you grumble “If only I had _____” or “I wish that _____ was
    different”?
  10. How
    often do you whisper thanks to God or communicate thanks to those around
    you?

Thank God for God

Thank God for God – “We all have so much to thank God for, but we often fail to thank God for Himself; that there is a God, that there is such a God, and that such a God is our God.”

Abundant Thanksgiving in Poverty and True Wealth

Abundant Thanksgiving in Poverty and True Wealth – This is a good thanksgiving story from church history.

Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Thanksgiving: The Holiday God Requires

Thanksgiving: The Holiday God Requires - A good word as we move toward Thanksgiving Day.

Ferguson and the Path to Peace

Ferguson and the Path to PeaceRussell Moore speaks to the events in Ferguson

Want to Be Missional in the Way of Jesus? - Don’t Make These Five Mistakes

Want to Be Missional in the Way of Jesus?—Don’t Make These Five MistakesLiving on mission is important, and Christ must be the center of the missional Christian's message.

A Decision in Ferguson: How Should Evangelicals Respond?

A Decision in Ferguson: How Should Evangelicals Respond? Ed Stetzer provides a wise perspective on the issues.The grand jury has made a decision in Ferguson, now we have to make ours. How will we respond?”

A Letter to the Anxious Christian

A Letter to the Anxious Christian – Here are some good reminders to us in our worries.

Monday, November 24, 2014

Gratitude Is Hard to Do

Gratitude Is Hard to Do - Gratitude should fill the Christian’s life (1 Thess. 5:18; Acts 2:46-47), especially with Thanksgiving on the horizon. So why am I so prone to ingratitude? Genuine gratitude seems elusive.

Help to Increase Your Thanksgiving Appetite

Help to Increase Your Thanksgiving Appetite - When it comes to cultivating gratitude, we need all the help we can get.

I Choose to Trust Christ Today

I Choose to Trust Christ Today – Randy Alcorn shares, “In her book Choosing Gratitude, Nancy Leigh DeMoss shares a pledge written by a Bible teacher named Russell Kelfer. He challenged believers to write these words on a sheet of paper, and sign their names, then make a habit of recommitting themselves to it on a regular basis:

Having been born into the kingdom of God, I do hereby acknowledge that God’s purchase of my life included all the rights and control of that life for all eternity.

I do further acknowledge that He has not guaranteed me to be free from pain or to have success or prosperity. He has not guaranteed me perfect health. He has not guaranteed me perfect parents. He has not guaranteed me perfect children. He has not guaranteed me the absence of pressures, trials, misunderstandings, or persecution.

What He has promised me is eternal life. What He has promised me is abundant life. What He has promised me is love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, meekness, and self-control. He has given me all of Himself in exchange for the rights to my life…

Therefore I acknowledge this day the relinquishment of all my rights and expectations, and humbly ask Him by His grace to replace these with a grateful spirit, for whatever in His wisdom He deems to allow for my life.

In other words, this day—like every other day—belongs to God, not me. So, if God determines that I should spend time contending with a flat tire, an unpleasant confrontation, or even an unexpected trip to the emergency room, that’s completely up to Him. He knows best. He’s the master, I’m His servant. I have trusted Him with my eternal life, and I will trust Him with my life today.”


Four Reminders for Holiday Hospitality

Four Reminders for Holiday Hospitality – This is a good word as you anticipate hosting family and friends this Thanksgiving.

Saturday, November 22, 2014

What Does God Sound Like?

What Does God Sound Like? - Ridley Scott made an interesting decision for the voice of God, and it raises an important question.

5 Ideas for Discussing Mockingjay with Teens: A Mars Hill Approach

5 Ideas for Discussing Mockingjay with Teens: A Mars Hill Approach - Media is never benign in its messages. With the next installment of the Hunger Games series coming out in theaters, how can you talk to your children about worldview (not just with with movie and book series but in all media consumption). 

Five Ways to Kill Anger

Five Ways to Kill Anger – “No matter how just your words may be, you ruin everything when you speak with anger.” Chrysostom

Friday, November 21, 2014

When Marriage Is No Longer Exciting

When Marriage Is No Longer Exciting - What to remember when the honeymoon phase fades and marriage feels like a lot of work.

Immigration and Church—Why It Matters

Immigration and Church—Why It MattersEd Stetzer writes, “Like many other evangelical leaders, I support immigration reform. However, probably like many, I'm very disappointed as to how this is playing out.”

The Local Church and the Supremacy of Christ

The Local Church and the Supremacy of Christ – “The local church is a community of Christians who live as the on-the-ground expression of the supremacy of Jesus by advancing his gospel in distance and depth.”

Why The Church Needs Struggling Members

Why The Church Needs Struggling Members – “It’s tempting to retreat from people in these times, but we must keep coming back because God warns us against quitting fellowship (Heb. 10:25).”

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Devotional on Grace

Devotional on Grace – I’m enjoying Paul Tripp’s devotionals leading up to Thanksgiving. Today, Tripp writes, “Admit it, we’re all still a bit of a mess; that’s why we need God’s grace today as much as we needed it the first day we believed.”

Monday, November 17, 2014

A Prayer about Health Concerns and Healing

A Prayer about Health Concerns and Healing This is a good follow-up to Sunday’s prayer service.

Soul Earthquake

Soul Earthquake - “For the most part, I am safe; I am comfortable; I am happy. The level of terror I feel at the thought of giving it up is the indication of how tightly I am holding onto it all.”

Distinguishing the Spirit and the Serpent

Distinguishing the Spirit and the Serpent - “How do we distinguish the promptings of the Spirit of grace in His guiding and governing of our lives from the delusions of the spirit of the world and of our own sinful heart?”

Saturday, November 15, 2014

3 Disciplines to Develop Wise Speech

3 Disciplines to Develop Wise SpeechOur speech should reflect Christ and the wisdom of God. Here are three ways to take next steps in this area.

Six Truths about Sickness

Six Truths about SicknessYou will experience sickness at some point in your life. What does the Bible teach about illness?

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Stop Wondering What ‘Might Have Been’

Stop Wondering What‘ Might Have Been’How spending too much time reflecting on "if only"s can prevent us from moving forward.

Finding the Doorway to Hope

Finding the Doorway to Hope – Hopelessness is the doorway to hope. You have to give up on yourself before you will be excited about the hope that is yours in Christ Jesus.

Memorize the Mind of God

Memorize the Mind of God Scripture memory, at its best, is about feeding your soul today and mapping your life and mind onto the very life and mind of God.

A Theology of Healing

A Theology of Healing - Justin Taylor summarizes an interesting article at Christianity Today.

Are You Walking with God?

Are You Walking with God? - Janet Denison shares a great thought and challenge for any church leader.

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

10 Ways the Enemy Gets the Upper Hand in a Church

10 Ways the Enemy Gets the Upper Hand in a Church - All so true.

9 Things You Should Know About Military Chaplains

9 Things You Should Know About Military ChaplainsOn this Veterans Day, remember to pray for military chaplains. Here are some things to know that will inform your praying.

Thanksgiving Devotional

Thanksgiving Devotional - I am always blessed by Paul Tripp's ministry. You can sign up here for a free daily devotional from Paul Tripp that will help you prepare for Thanksgiving.

A Man's Greatest Challenge

A Man's Greatest ChallengeThis brief book review of a new release of the same title. The answer may surprise you.


In Defense of Marriage and the Rule of Law

In Defense of Marriage and the Rule of LawThis article helps break down the significance of the Sixth Circuit Court’s ruling on same-sex marriage.

Monday, November 10, 2014

My Love-Hate Relationship with Bible Study Tools

My Love-Hate Relationship with Bible Study Tools – “Modern Bible study tools are a great blessing—but if you rarely or never study the Bible without them, you’re not only doing it backward, you’re seriously missing out.”

What Sesame Street Taught Me About Ministry

What Sesame Street Taught Me About Ministry - This is an insightful piece from Jim Denison. Sesame Street has continued to transition itself to stay relevant and effective. Churches must do the same.

Saturday, November 8, 2014

How To Know If It Is God You Are Hearing

I found this years ago. It is one of several such resources I walk through when discerning God's voice. I hope you find it as helpful as I have.

How can we know if it’s God we are hearing?

  • What I heard helps me to respect (fear) the Lord and depart from evil.
  • The message increases my faith or my knowledge and understanding
  • of Scripture.
  • The actions that will result from following this word will be full of spiritual fruit: “purity, peace, gentleness, mercy, courtesy, good deeds, sincerity, and without hypocrisy.” (James 3:17)
  • What I heard strengthens me “with all might” so that I can keep going no matter what happens (Col. 1:11)
  • It causes me to experience joyfulness and thanksgiving to the Father (Col. 1:12)


Risk Is Right

Risk Is Right - Desiring God interviews Ebola survivor and missionary Nancy Writebol. “Along with her husband of 40 years, David, she was serving as a missionary in Monrovia, Liberia, before the Ebola outbreak. They served in a hospital that would become a frontline defense against the disease.”

12 Ways To Make (and Keep) Friends

12 Ways To Make (and Keep) FriendsThis is a great list for developing real friendships.

Thursday, November 6, 2014

Here's Where Your Neighbors Are Theologically

Here's Where Your Neighbors Are Theologically— Trevin Wax analyzes our poll of self-identified evangelicals. What do people who claim to be Christians believe that is not biblical or Christian and how should we respond?

Is Politeness Killing Your Prayer Life?

Is Politeness Killing Your Prayer Life? - “Christians in North America are generally polite pray-ers.
We tend to pray correct, respectful words that we think God wants to hear. But
let's be honest, many of our prayers are tentative, repetitive, and somewhat
boring.”

What the Election Reveals About Us

What the Election Reveals About UsAl Mohler interprets the election results and what they say about our hearts.

3 Things To Consider Before That Next Big Sin

3 Things To Consider Before That Next Big Sin “Sin promises so much but delivers so little. Sin always amplifies its benefits and minimizes its cost.” 


Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Helping the Hurting

Helping the Hurting“As believers in Jesus, we are charged to walk alongside each other in our pain. We are called to mourn with those who mourn (Rom. 12:14). We are to bear one another’s burdens (Gal. 6:2). We are to be compassionate, gentle, and patient with each other (Eph. 4:21 Pet. 3:8). Yet sometimes, in our efforts to reach out to a suffering friend, we unwittingly hurt the very ones we want to help.” 

7 Things Facebook Teaches Us About Real Community

7 Things Facebook Teaches Us About Real CommunityWe have a lot to learn from social media.

Five Truths About the Wrath of God

Five Truths About the Wrath of God – “We live in a day where we have set ourselves as the judge and God’s character is on trial.” This article helps to unpack biblical truths on the wrath of God.

Someday It Will Be Worth It

Someday It Will Be Worth It - You won’t be disappointed. Keep believing in Jesus.

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

Here’s Proof That Your Vote Really Matters

Here’s Proof That Your Vote Really MattersToday is election day and Christians in America should vote prayerfully and faithfully. It is a big part of our responsibility as believers (Romans 13:1-7) and in our role as salt and light in the world. Here are examples of a few elections in which history was determined by slender margins.

20 Quotes from Tim Keller’s New Book on Prayer

20 Quotes from Tim Keller’s New Book on Prayer My copy is on the way. Here’s an example, “It is remarkable that in all of his writings Paul’s prayers for his friends contain no appeals for changes in their circumstances.”

4 Ways Immigration Impacts the Mission of the Church

4 Ways Immigration Impacts the Mission of the ChurchImmigration is changing how the Church thinks about mission and outreach in North America.

Four Checks for Your Ebola Fears

Four Checks for Your Ebola FearsJesus says, “I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do” (Luke 12:4). This is an important verse for Christians to hear in the time of Ebola, a disease which kills the body, but can do nothing more.

The Myth of Hate

The Myth of Hate - “I’m told writing this post won’t matter. I can clarify until I’m blue in the face and nothing will change. It doesn’t matter what Christians actually think or believe about homosexuality. It seems the world will still believe what it wants to believe no matter what anyone says.”

Monday, November 3, 2014

The Most Overlooked Characteristic of Who You Want to Marry

The Most Overlooked Characteristic of Who You Want to MarryThere is one vital characteristic you should look for in a spouse but unfortunately, it is often forgotten.

General Confession from the Book of Common Prayer

I have several resources in my Prayer Notebook to encourage my daily prayer time. In prayers of confession, I sometimes pray through these meaningful words.

GENERAL CONFESSION FROM THE BOOK OF COMMON PRAYER

Almighty and most merciful Father,
we have erred and strayed from thy ways like lost sheep, 
we have followed too much the devices and desires of our own hearts,
we have offended against thy holy laws,
we have left undone those things which we ought to have done,
and we have done those things which we ought not to have done.
But thou, O Lord, have mercy upon us,
spare thou those who confess their faults,
restore thou those who are penitent,
according to thy promises declared unto mankind
in Christ Jesus our Lord;
and grant, O most merciful Father, for his sake,
that we may hereafter live a godly, righteous, and sober life,
to the glory of thy holy Name. Amen.


Why Christians Should Vote

Why Christians Should Vote – “(As American Christians) we're in a curious position relative to most of Christian history. We are called to yield to authority, yet we also wield authority. To complicate matters even further, we share that authority with nonbelievers whose conception of the earthly good life will overlap with ours in some ways, and sharply diverge in others.”

Smashing Idols: Why Today's Church Leaders Must Still Fight the Same Old Battle

Smashing Idols: Why Today's Church Leaders Must Still Fight the Same Old Battle  – “It was John Calvin who said our heart is an idol factory. In a fallen world, people constantly seek things they can worship, even though the Creator is before us in plain view.”

Ten Reasons Why I’m Not Giving Up on Local Churches

Ten Reasons Why I’m Not Giving Up on Local Churches - Me too!

Did the Pope Endorse Evolution?

Did the Pope Endorse Evolution? - Jim Denison provides a more complete background on the Pope's statements on evolution.

Saturday, November 1, 2014

A Prayer for the Gospel to Impact Our Heads, Hearts, and Hands

A Prayer for the Gospel to Impact Our Heads, Hearts, and HandsThis is a good thought for your day.

The Sunday to Monday Gap

The Sunday to Monday Gap – “Because God is at work in the midst of the work we are doing, all of our work is sacred.”

Colonial America and How (Not) to Pray Against Cultural Decline

Colonial America and How (Not) to Pray Against Cultural Decline: I have come to look forward to reading what Thomas Kidd is writing. In this blog article he writes, "By the 1670s, a cadre of new Puritan ministers—perhaps
America’s first “evangelical” pastors—made a subtle but critical shift. For
these pastors, the emphasis was no longer so much on reform, but on revival;
not on people’s moral effort, but on God’s redemptive power."

Thursday, October 30, 2014

What Not to Say to Parents of Adopted Children

What Not to Say to Parents of Adopted Children - “When are you having your own kids?” and other things to avoid. I have heard most of these. They are good reminders for us all.

Are Millennials Leaving the Church Because of Homosexuality?

Are Millennials Leaving the Church Because of Homosexuality? - This statement is regularly offered up. Is it true?

Do People in Your Church Believe in God? Two graphs of America’s 43 Largest Faiths

Do People in Your Church Believe in God? Two graphs of America’s 43 Largest FaithsMost people say “yes” to this question but when presented with a simple clarifier, their answers shift.

What Led You To Become An Atheist? Some Surprising Answers



7 Marks of a Deeply Deadly Sin

7 Marks of a Deeply Deadly SinNot all sin is the same. “The deadliness of a sin is not related so much to the category of that sin, but to how deeply-rooted it is in your life, and to how you have responded to God as he has revealed it to you.”

Monday, October 27, 2014

Corporate Worship Is Better Than Your Quiet Time

Corporate Worship Is Better Than Your Quiet Time – “Worshiping God shoulder-to-shoulder is one of the greatest joys of covenant relationship with God.”

A Prayer for the Parent’s Soul

A Prayer for the Parent’s Soul – “There is a prayer in Psalm 143 that might help us. The aim of this prayer is not for parental advice, but for the parent’s soul. The focus is not your methods and procedures in parenting, but the postures of your heart as a parent.”

Sent into the Harvest: Halloween on Mission

Sent into the Harvest: Halloween on Mission - How will you address Halloween this week as a believer?

Thursday, October 23, 2014

Why ‘Quiet Times’ Shouldn’t Just Happen Alone

Why ‘Quiet Times’ Shouldn’t Just Happen Alone Personal Bible reading is great, but it's just the beginning.

20 Ways to be Refreshing in the Local Church


Jason shares a great list of reminders how refreshing ministry can be and what you can do to reignite that refreshment in your ministry.

God’s School of Waiting

God’s School of WaitingThere are great lessons to be learned in this unpopular school.

Sin Is Worse Than Hell

Sin Is Worse Than Hell – “So sin, in the final analysis, is worse than hell. We should not marvel that God burns with wrath against his enemies. Let us marvel, instead, that while we were still enemies, Christ died for us.”

6 Costs of Real Friendships

6 Costs of Real FriendshipsWhy is friendship so difficult? Because it costs. Be willing to pay for such a treasure.

Cheerful Confidence after Christendom

Cheerful Confidence after Christendom - This is a good word on living in a post-Christian culture.

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

When the Church Has Let You Down

When the Church Has Let You DownDuring a recent doctor visit, I had a conversation with a nurse who was still carrying hurt from the church she grew up in. Years had passed but the wounds were still fresh. Her story is common. A few steps forward for those who have been hurt.

Celebration Is a Spiritual Discipline

Celebration Is a Spiritual Discipline Mastering the fine art of joyful occasions

5 Reasons Why There Are No Millennials in Your Church

5 Reasons Why There Are No Millennials in Your Church - There is much to consider in our traditional churches in this article. The answers aren't all easy and clear but the discussion is important.

Biblical Literacy by the Numbers Part 2: Scripture Engagement

Biblical Literacy by the Numbers Part 2: Scripture Engagement“No matter how you look at it, Bible engagement is related to spiritual growth. Growing Christians don't just read the Bible; they value and engage it because God is at work in their lives.”

Proactive and Reactive Prayer

Proactive and Reactive Prayer – “By and large, prayer points shared around the room tend to be reactive to the life issues that each of us, or our friends/family, are facing. And please don’t hear me saying anything other than that is appropriate and good, especially in a home group context. But…”


4 Reasons to Speak the Gospel to One Another

4 Reasons to Speak the Gospel to One AnotherChristians should speak the Gospel to one another and here are some good reasons why.

Saturday, October 18, 2014

The Hopeless Marriage

The Hopeless Marriage - It is hard to have a vibrant life with God when your primary relationship is in the dumper. So, what can you do?

Friday, October 17, 2014

4 Things That Happen When You Study Leviticus More Than 10 Years

4 Things That Happen When You Study Leviticus More Than 10 YearsIt took a few years but I’ve come to anticipate my annual reading of Leviticus. This author helps to explain why that would be so. 

There’s More to Africa Than Just Problems to Solve

There’s More to Africa Than Just Problems to SolveFrom my experiences with the people of the African continent would agree with this author, “We need to start seeing Africa as more than just a disaster zone.”

9 Things Everyone Should Do When Reading the Bible

9 Things Everyone Should Do When Reading the BibleA few simple habits to build into your Bible reading.

The Best Theological Label Is “Berean”

The Best Theological Label Is “Berean” – Here is a good word from Randy Alcorn.

3 Principles for Asking for Forgiveness

3 Principles for Asking for ForgivenessAs we ask for forgiveness, we are taking a most important step in restoring an injured relationship.

Parents: Should You Mandate Bible Reading for your Children?

Parents: Should You Mandate Bible Reading for your Children? - At what point will we defeat our purpose and discourage them?


Thursday, October 16, 2014

Houston Officials Demand Pastors Turn Over Sermons

Houston Officials Demand Pastors Turn Over SermonsJim Denison weighs in on the religious liberty issues of the Houston case.

How God Impacts Our Money and Stuff

How God Impacts Our Money and Stuff - The love of money is more than dangerous — it’s spiritual suicide.

Contentment Does Not Come Naturally

Contentment Does Not Come Naturally – “Present contentment is rooted in a past reality and a future hope. It’s hard not to trust a bleeding Savior who will take me home.”

Honoring the Sabbath Like a Command

Honoring the Sabbath Like a CommandWhy observing Sabbath still matters.

Dispelling Rumors of Religion’s Demise

Dispelling Rumors of Religion’s DemiseI had opportunity to meet Byron Johnson last month. He’s doing great work in research and here is another interesting sampling.

Behold Your Mother

Behold Your MotherWhy we need to teach Christians how to care for aging parents.

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

A Prayer for Offloading Our Anxieties and Cares on God

Finding a Level Head in a Hectic World

Finding a Level Head in a Hectic World In a day of endless distraction and diversion, there is no greater remedy for our clouded heads and hectic lives than the sober mind of Christ.

Successful Ministry

Successful Ministry The encouragement that comes from knowing “the Lord is with us” as we share the Gospel.

Houston, We Have a Constitution

Houston, We Have a Constitution - Russell Moore comments on the attack on religious liberty and the constitution in Houston.

How Often Do We See Our Faith Through a Western Worldview?

How Often Do We See Our Faith Through a Western Worldview? - We sometimes read and interpret the Bible as if it was written just to westerners who speak English.

Attack on Religious Liberty

Attack on Religious LibertyCity of Houston Demands Pastors Turn Over Sermons. Pray for church leaders on Houston.

Monday, October 13, 2014

Evangelizing to People Who Have Heard it All Before

Evangelizing to People Who Have Heard it All Before5 ways to share your faith without shoving it down people's throats.

What Should Evangelicals Make of the Rome Synod on the Family?

What Should Evangelicals Make of the Rome Synod on the Family? Russell Moore comments, “There are some important questions posed here, that we should consider.”

Be Ready to Answer Your Kids’ Questions About the Bible

Be Ready to Answer Your Kids’ Questions About the Bible Jon Bloom writes, “So here are a few answers (in language I would speak to my 9 year old twins) that might be helpful for some mealtime (or bedtime!) discussions.” He also includes links to adults’ questions about the Bible.


A Prayer for Growing Thick Skin and a Big Heart

A Prayer for Growing Thick Skin and a Big HeartIn a world of messy relationships, this is a good word to offer to the Lord.

12 Pillars of Faith for Parents of Special Needs’ Kids

12 Pillars of Faith for Parents of Special Needs’ KidsAn encouraging, biblical word from Paul Tautges.


Activism in the Social Media Age

Activism in the Social Media AgeThis cartoon is about right.

7 Things Your Church Needs From You

7 Things Your Church Needs From YouTim Challies’ list is right on the mark.

Sunday, October 12, 2014

Saturday, October 11, 2014

A Quote Worth Remembering

Tim Challies shares this great Adrian Rogers quote:

Holiness is not the way to Christ. Christ is the way to holiness. —Adrian Rogers

Let Your Dim, Sin-Stained Light Shine Before The World

Let Your Dim, Sin-Stained Light Shine Before The WorldHere is a good description of what it means to live out a Christian testimony.

Friday, October 10, 2014

Thursday, October 9, 2014

8 Warning Signs Your Marriage Might Be In Trouble

8 Warning Signs Your Marriage Might Be In TroubleA few habits you should be paying very close attention to.



Idolatry Is Alive Today

Idolatry Is Alive TodayIdolatry is still trying to work its way into our lives.

Do You Have Confidence in Christ That Can Handle Ebola?

Do You Have Confidence in Christ That Can Handle Ebola?In the midst of fears, it’s a question Christians need to answer.


Will Christians Be Secretly Raptured?

Will Christians Be Secretly Raptured?With the release of the Left Behind movie, this discussion is again on many minds. This article describes the history and some brief analysis of the secret rapture movement in America.

Why Did God Allow Satan to Harm Job and His Family?

Why Did God Allow Satan to Harm Job and His Family?Here is one view of the story of Job and lessons to be learned.

Tuesday, October 7, 2014

When I Feel Afraid

When I Feel Afraid Any number of things can stir our fears just now. What should we do when we are afraid

When God Feels Cruel

When God Feels Cruel Have you ever asked God “why” and complained to Him or cried out to Him in frustration. The Bible is filled with godly examples of people who did just that. What can we learn from them?

A Sad Milestone for Marriage and Morality

A Sad Milestone for Marriage and MoralityAl Mohler provides commentary on what the Supreme Court’s decision on same-sex marriage means for the nation. As Justice Scalia predicted earlier, “The other shoe has dropped.”

Monday, October 6, 2014

Same-Sex Marriage and the Supreme Court: What Now for the Church?

Same-Sex Marriage and the Supreme Court: What Now for the Church?Russell Moore writes, “We ought to have the confidence of people who have heard a word from God and the compassion of a people who are on a mission with God. The Supreme Court can do many things, but the Supreme Court cannot get Jesus back into his cemetery plot.”

20 Leadership Quotes from Louie Giglio

20 Leadership Quotes from Louie GiglioThese are good reading.

The Ten Commandments For Using Modern Media

The Ten Commandments For Using Modern Media – Tim Challies writes, “I stumbled across one parent’s attempt to bring reason and discipline to her children’s use of digital media. To help them learn how to use their devices well, Susan Maushart has instituted “The Ten Commandments For Using Modern Media.” Here they are:

  • Thou shalt not fear boredom
  • Thou shalt not “multitask” (not until thy kingdom come, thy homework be done)
  • Thou shalt not WILF (WILF describes the “What Was I Looking For” phenomenon of using Google to look for one thing, and then burning two hours hunting down random and unimportant facts)
  • Thou shalt not text and drive (or talk, or sleep)
  • Thou shalt keep the Sabbath a screen-free day
  • Thou shalt keep thy bedroom a media-free zone
  • Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s upgrade
  • Thou shalt set thy accounts to “Private”
  • Thou shalt bring no media to thy dinner
  • Thou shalt bring no dinner to thy media.

I’ve got to say: Those aren’t too bad…



Be Yourself in Prayer

Be Yourself in PrayerWe shouldn’t make prayer overly complicated. Here are some suggestions for engaging in a meaningful prayer conversation with God.


What Is Discernment?

What Is Discernment? This is a good article describing discernment and then finding its applications for us all. 

6 Great Reasons To Study Doctrine

6 Great Reasons To Study DoctrineWhy should be dig into the big truths of God?

Thursday, October 2, 2014

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

9 Things You Should Know About Atheism

9 Things You Should Know About Atheism - The number of people who identify themselves as atheists in the United States has been steadily rising in recent years. According to the Pew Research Center, when asked about their religious identity, 2.4 percent of Americans say they are atheists, up from 1.6 percent in 2007. Here are nine things you should know.

13 George Whitefield Quotes That Will Challenge Your Spiritual Life

13 George Whitefield Quotes That Will Challenge Your Spiritual Life – The one on evangelism is one of my favorites.

3 Truths About Spiritual Gifts

3 Truths About Spiritual Gifts - This is a helpful article in finding a place to serve the Lord.

3 Ways to Avoid the 'Children's Church' Ditch | The Christward Collective

3 Ways to Avoid the 'Children's Church' Ditch - Here is a interesting article on a much-discussed church topic.

Only One Life

Only One Life - This article shares an inspirational biography and some great quotes such as, "Only one life,
‘twill soon be past, Only what’s done for Christ will last."


Where Satan Will Attack You Today

Where Satan Will Attack You Today The victory that overcomes the world is our faith.

Five Questions With a Former Muslim Who Converted to Christianity

Five Questions With a Former Muslim Who Converted to ChristianityI found this to be interesting and helpful.

Monday, September 29, 2014

Don’t Let Your Stuff Own You

Don’t Let Your Stuff Own YouThey're just possessions. Hold onto them loosely.

Loving Muslims Enough to Reach Out, Globally and Locally

Loving Muslims Enough to Reach Out, Globally and LocallyWhat would it look like for Christians to love Muslims enough to share Jesus with them?

Where Satan Will Attack You Today

Where Satan Will Attack You Today - Do you know where the front of the battle is? It’s in your head.

Happy Are Those…

Happy Are Those… - In Matthew 5:1-12 we learn of ten marks of those who experience true happiness.

The 6 Ingredients of Jesus’ Bitter Cup

The 6 Ingredients of Jesus’ Bitter CupIsaac Ambrose captured so well the meaning of the cup when he set out what he believed to be the 6 ingredients that made it so burdensome a sight to the soul of the sinless Son of God.

Six Reasons to Live More Simply—and Give More Generously

Sunday, September 28, 2014

Why We Neglect Our Bibles

Why We Neglect Our Bibles This article is well done. It answers typical issues raised as excuses for not reading our Bibles.