“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends You, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.” (Psalm 139:23-24 NLT) The thought of being in heaven without my kids is unbearable. To see them walking without an intimate relationship withContinue reading “Why All the Angst?”
Tag Archives: Jesus
What Is the Object of Your Praise?
“For they loved human praise more than the praise of God.” (John 12:43 NLT) One of the clearest pictures of a person who loves Jesus more than they love themselves, is their reaction to praise. That’s something with which I’ve wrestled for many years, and still do on some levels. For example, when I wasContinue reading “What Is the Object of Your Praise?”
Seeing Our Work As Sacred
“For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.” (Ephesians 2:10 NLT) We’re tempted, especially as a new believer, to view what we do to earn a living as “ours,” and what we do in and throughContinue reading “Seeing Our Work As Sacred”
Everything You Need!
“These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs.” (Matthew 6:32 NLT) When you think about “needs,” what comes first to mind? If you’re a Jesus follower, hopefully, you’ll recognize your overarching need of Jesus. But when it comes to practical, everyday needs, what’s first? Food, clothing, shelter,Continue reading “Everything You Need!”
The Exponential Effects of Your Witness
“When He (Jesus) saw the crowds, He had compassion on them because they were confused and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” (Matthew 9:36 NLT) To me the most vital characteristic a Jesus follower must have in order to influence others for Him, is compassion. We fret and make excuse for not reaching out toContinue reading “The Exponential Effects of Your Witness”
Harvest Is Urgent Business
“Meanwhile, the disciples were urging Jesus, ‘Rabbi, eat something.’” (John 4:31 NLT) While I have very little experience with farming and literal crops, other than flowers and a few plants we had in a small garden, I know enough to realize that harvesting in a timely manner is critical. To pick the ripening fruit orContinue reading “Harvest Is Urgent Business”
Our Former Ignorance
“And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, He has identified you as His own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior.” (Ephesians 4:30-31 NLT)Continue reading “Our Former Ignorance”
A Simple Presence
“Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep.” (Romans 12:15 NLT) Leaving church one Sunday morning shortly after my divorce, my pastor asked me how I was doing. He had known me and my wife for many years. Unable to hold it together, without saying a word, I fell intoContinue reading “A Simple Presence”
What Is the Unpardonable Sin?
“I tell you the truth, all sin and blasphemy can be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven. This is a sin with eternal consequences.” (Mark 3:28-29 NLT) The context of the above verses is a time early in Jesus’ ministry when He’d been healing people and casting out demons.Continue reading “What Is the Unpardonable Sin?”
The Things God Can’t Do
“For nothing is impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37 NLT) While it’s difficult to think of something that God is not or cannot do, if we’re not careful we’ll inadvertently blame God for something He can’t possibly do. Our frame of reference is human beings. That’s what we are, that’s who we are, so, naturally, weContinue reading “The Things God Can’t Do”
Walking With Jesus 