“Let us keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from beginning to end. He did not give up because of the cross! On the contrary, because of the joy that was waiting for him, he thought nothing of the disgrace of dying on the cross, and he is now seated at... Continue Reading →
Guarding Peace
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7 I remember when I was a child my mom would always ask or demand for “a little peace and quiet”. Maybe it is just me, but there are times when complete chaos can be... Continue Reading →
Presence
“Do not banish me from your presence; do not take your holy spirit away from me. Give me again the joy that comes from your salvation, and make me willing to obey you.” Psalm 51:11-12 This is one of my favorite Psalm passages. David wrote it after he committed adultery and subsequently murdered the... Continue Reading →
Repentance
““But even now,” says the Lord, “repent sincerely and return to me with fasting and weeping and mourning. Let your broken heart show your sorrow; tearing your clothes is not enough.” Come back to the Lord your God. He is kind and full of mercy; he is patient and keeps his promise; he is always... Continue Reading →
Creating Treasure
“I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me.” Philippians 4:13 All conditions. All is pretty encompassing. There is nothing we can face that Christ can’t give us the strength to endure. Doesn’t that evoke a deep level of hope? Paul knew what it was like to walk... Continue Reading →
As a Deer…
“As a deer longs for a stream of cool water, so I long for you, O God.” Psalm 42:1 There is a song that has this same line in it, as a young adult it was one of my favorite songs to sing. There is something beautiful about the use of nature in praising God.... Continue Reading →
Spirit or Flesh?
“What I say is this: let the Spirit direct your lives, and you will not satisfy the desires of the human nature.” Galatians 5:16 I feel like sometimes we blame the enemy for what is really our human nature. It is easier to see everything as white and black, as good and evil, or... Continue Reading →
Refreshing Rest
“I will refresh those who are weary and will satisfy with food everyone who is weak from hunger.” Jeremiah 31:25 I am weary. This week has been long. I have slept, I am just physically and emotionally exhausted. My schedule has been full and I know this time of the year takes its toll... Continue Reading →
Examine Me
“Examine me, O God, and know my mind; test me, and discover my thoughts. Find out if there is any evil in me and guide me in the everlasting way.” Psalm 139:23-24 This passage is what Craig Groeschel calls a dangerous prayer. One of those prayers that are easy to quote but much harder... Continue Reading →
Love and Respect
“Love one another warmly as Christians, and be eager to show respect for one another.” Romans 12:10 It’s Valentine’s Day here in America. Flowers are being delivered. Cards are being written. Candy is being purchased. Reservations are being made. Grand gestures of love have been prepared for this specific day of the year. Many... Continue Reading →
