Trying to Trap Jesus and Deciding His Answers Are Always Best
While we may be comfortable with Jesus as the Savior who forgives our sins, the real challenge is in yielding to His authority over every area of our lives, not just the parts we find convenient.
The Rest We Really Need: More Than Just Sleep
As we adjust to the shift in time, it’s a reminder that true rest for our souls isn’t found in just slowing down, but in wholehearted devotion to God.
When Less is More
The story of Gideon demonstrates that when it comes to God's plans, having less can actually lead to greater victory.
The Boat, The Storm, and the Savior
The disciples' struggle in the storm is a reminder that, even when we face overwhelming challenges, Jesus is with us and capable of bringing peace in the midst of turmoil.
Advancing in Life, Advancing in Faith
Aging provides us with the chance to look back and recognize God’s provision and guidance throughout our lives, offering humility and gratitude for His role in our success and longevity.
From Walls to Worship
In the midst of life's struggles, we can take comfort in knowing that God has already acted on our behalf, securing victory through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.
When We Wait and Watch, God’s Need-Quenching Blessings Spring Forth
Just as God provided for Israel, we can trust that He is always working ahead of us, and our role is to approach Him with faith and expectancy, knowing He will meet our needs.
The Invitation to Remember
Jesus' words, "Do this in remembrance of me," invite us to reflect on his sacrifice through the shared tradition of communion, which connects us with Him and with one another.
Be Strong and Courageous: Finding Confidence in God’s Promises
In Deuteronomy and Joshua, God repeatedly tells Joshua to be strong and courageous, offering reminders of His presence and promises, which were not just for Joshua but are relevant for us today.
Lessons on the Rock
Like the children who love collecting rocks, I find that certain symbols, like the rocks mentioned in the Bible, remind us of God's steadfast presence and the foundation He provides, even amidst life's challenges.
I Hope It Was A Catchy Melody!
It’s fascinating how easily we can recall the lyrics to songs from decades ago, yet struggle to remember what we learned last week. Scripture, too, has the power to stay with us, especially when we commit it to memory—whether through music or simple repetition.
The Struggle to Seek More
In Deuteronomy, Moses reminded the Israelites of God’s authority over all things, teaching them that some things are hidden in God’s wisdom. Our responsibility is to focus on what has been revealed to us, trusting that God knows best and will guide us through what we can’t yet understand.
What Seemed Like the End of the Story, Became a Day Like No Other
As we face our own daily routines, we are called to recognize the possibility that God might use us to bring transformation and hope to those around us, just as He did with the resurrection.
The Cost of Following Christ
Jesus made it clear that following Him requires a whole-hearted commitment, not divided loyalties. The Sermon on the Mount challenges us to examine where we compartmentalize our faith, urging us to surrender all aspects of our lives to His teachings and righteousness.
The Shema and the Kingdom: Love God, Love Others
Jesus’ audience, familiar with the Shema, would have known the call to love God with all their heart, soul, and might. But Jesus expanded this understanding, teaching that our love for God must be reflected in how we treat others, calling us to embody God’s kingdom through compassion and forgiveness.
The Mountain of New Beginnings
Imagine the scene of Jesus ascending the mountain to teach, echoing the moment when Moses went up to receive the Ten Commandments. But this time, a new message emerges—one of grace, blessing, and a new way to live in the kingdom of God.
The Kingdom of God: Change with Purpose
Following Jesus requires a shift in focus; it's not just about personal preferences but aligning our actions and purposes with the kingdom of God.
Obedience Over Knowledge
The Israelites' repeated failures to obey God’s commandments serve as a backdrop to Jesus’ obedience, where He exemplifies the power of doing God’s word, even in the face of temptation.
When to Wait, When to Go, How to Trust—a Challenge for All Believers
In moments of fear or confusion, God calls us to stand still and trust that He will fight our battles for us. Too often, we rush ahead, trying to control outcomes, but sometimes God’s plan requires us to wait for His intervention. Trusting God’s sovereignty means acknowledging that He is in control, even when our instincts push us to act prematurely.
The Leadership of the Suffering Servant
When Jesus began His public ministry, He did so with humility, not seeking power, but fulfilling God’s redemptive plan. For us as leaders, this challenges us to ask whether our leadership reflects self-service or submission to God's purpose.