‘Pure in heart,’ a standard for our times, a challenge for our lives
When our eyes are on another simply for the purpose of pleasing ourselves, we’re not seeing God. And that’s a truth that extends far beyond any discussion of sex.
What do you see? It may depend on what you’re learning to look for
We see what we’re looking for. Or, better stated, we see what we’re prepared to see. This is why some see God where others say he’s totally missing.
A doctor’s conclusion for every Christian: compassion is our calling
The example of Jesus shows us the power in touch. The admonition of Paul reminds us about the calling of compassion.
Better than a model: four ways I’m trying to be a reflection
Dean asked writers to tell how they’re being a model of their faith. I prefer to think about it in slightly different terms.
We know the world is a mess, but God is greater, so much greater!
Even in our translations of the original Bible texts, the very words ring with meaning. Here are two that are striking: "But God…”
Heaven to earth as a grace ambassador—seven days every week!
When we live, love, and lead like Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit, we are being ambassadors of Heaven.
Sticks, stones, and the potential of our words for either good or ill
What part of “words will never hurt me” have we learned just is not true?
Don’t stop a few steps short from all God has in mind for us
I didn’t expect much from a visit to Mount Nebo. But of all the places in the world I’ve been privileged to visit, Mount Nebo has impacted me the deepest.
Seeing spiritual transformation in the community of the classroom
There is a hunger for God. It is being experienced and lived out currently in the classrooms and on campus and it is bringing transformation to our lives.
After 16 years of marriage, for awhile the song in my spirit was gone
“Unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required.” And even in my loss, I see I’ve been given so much.
One story to show the surprising way God works to do his will
When I concentrate on the story of Judah, I’m struck anew at the remarkable ways God works in our world.
Planting seeds has become our way of living out our everyday faith
For us, faith in the Lord Jesus as our Savior is foundational to who we are as individuals and as a couple.
Like a scarlet cardinal on a gray day, God may come and surprise us
God is always at work in places we wouldn’t be looking and in ways we wouldn’t pay attention to.
Establishing a habit to help young women ‘turn the world upside down’
Nothing satisfies me more than sharing my faith at work, especially when it has the potential to change the future.
The wonderful spirit of Christmas—a gift we need all year long
Why don’t we all ask that question Ray Charles asks in his famous song: “Why can’t it remain all through the year?”
I am Martha, and I’m beginning to realize how to deal with that
Every time I read the story of Mary and Martha, I feel convicted. The real goal is not the perfection I’m trying to create but the relationship I’m seeking to enjoy.
We must face and we can overcome today’s epidemic loneliness
Since loneliness is so rampant in our culture, how can Christians begin to address this issue? Three thoughts come to mind.
My standards are exactly those I’d advocate for any believer
My entire working life has been either as a professor in a Christian college or the preacher of a local church. It seems axiomatic that I would model faith in both of those contexts. But sometimes what we think is “axiomatic” may be a cover-up for what is utterly missing.
What often comes first, before the joy we seek at Christmastime
My friend spoke of chaos and his decision to step into it in order to serve Christ and his church. In a way he reminds me of the choice Mary made.
Still trying to figure out what God wants from you? It’s simple!
It’s not what you have, what you give, or what you do. But what God wants most may be most difficult for us to give him.