An unlikely call, an eager follower, an example for all of us today
Jesus called a tax collector, the last type of person anyone expected to become a believer. I’m wondering if unliked people around me could become his followers, too.
Unplanned interruption, unlimited power, unimaginable grace
No one expected what Jesus did that day, and many couldn’t accept what he promised. But we who believe he was God hope for the same power to be seen in our lives.
Two choices: We can try to hold on. Or we can let go and follow
When days are difficult, we need to hold on. But then comes the time when we need to let go and pass on the strength and love Jesus has given us.
A lost Jesus, like any lost child, is terrible. But we can help!
He’s lost, and many aren’t looking for him. But we who have found Jesus can help others find him too.
Not the life he expected, but see how God used Daniel’s devotion
Of all the ways Daniel was prepared for a life he didn’t anticipate, his spiritual formation was most important.
The challenge, the blessing, the duties of living in the light
What a blessing to live in the light of God’s love! But sometimes the darkness still threatens to overwhelm. And always God is waiting for us to reflect his light to a world full of shadows.
Picture of a potter, the chance for God to help us start again
The old preacher used a simple picture to capture our attention. That’s exactly what Jeremiah did many centuries ago.
Location, location, location, a principle for more than real estate
Where you buy a house affects the value of your investment. Where you place your trust determines far, far more.
Want the prominence that comes with skill? It won’t be instant
A careful reading of one verse from Proverbs sets us up for real accomplishment. A flawed reading contributes to the unfortunate expectation of too many today.
A look at 1 Timothy 6: thinking straight about Jesus—and money
Contentment comes from something far different than arguing about words or devoting oneself to money.
A simple training plan for avoiding foolish, ignorant controversies
“Foolish, ignorant controversies”—they’re everywhere! But the apostle gives believers a simple strategy for rising above them.
Top down? Bottom up? What have you seen about how God does his work?
Throughout history, we see both factors at work. The challenge is to see which is most present today.
Why comparing my sin—to yours, or even to my past—is a waste
Paul admitted sin, but then compared it to the perfect love and unending grace of God through Christ. Not a bad attitude for any of us!
A prophet’s cry for help reminds us of God’s ultimate purpose & care
“How long must I wait for an answer, God? Are you even there?” Read Habbakuk, a short book buried in the back of the Old Testament, and see how current it sounds today!
Whatever help you need, God will answer, just as he’s helping me
Five days after my traumatic auto accident, I can identify with the help the psalmist promised from God.
How the Christian can open doors for sharing the gospel effectively
Closing verses of Paul’s letter to the Colossians offer us practical advice for relating well to those who don’t follow Christ.
Why would Paul suffer and sacrifice for people he didn’t know?
Paul’s commitment to people he’d never met sets the standard for our lives of sacrificial service.
Have you considered how people react when someone mentions your name?
With your name comes your reputation. And your reputation is formed by factors that may have little to do with what some people think is most important.
What would Jesus wear? It’s a question about your spiritual closet
Sometimes I like an old garment best. But usually it just doesn’t work to mix the old with the new, spiritually as well as physically.
Our call to the gospel includes the challenge of embracing diversity
God’s creation displays dazzling variety in all of life. And he promises to see that same diversity among his people in Heaven. Our challenge: do we see it here on earth?