“Well then, should we conclude that we Jews are better than others? No, not at all, for we have already shown that all people, whether Jews or Gentiles, are under the power of sin.” (Romans 3:9 NLT) The only appropriate response to the glory of God is worship. Anything less is blasphemy! That’s why RayContinue reading “Understanding the Nature of Sin”
Tag Archives: sin
Are You a Good Person?
“Don’t be misled – you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant.” (Galatians 6:7 NLT) Imagine you’re on vacation. You’re driving with your family to a beautiful destination. The surrounding area is already “teasing” you with it’s unique and inviting majesty, so much so you didn’t notice that youContinue reading “Are You a Good Person?”
If Only He’d Waited! (Part 2)
“’Tonight all of you will desert Me. For the Scriptures say, “God will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.”’” (Matthew 26:31 NLT) In yesterday’s post we looked at Judas’ betrayal, considering that in each of us resides the potential of being a betrayer. The fact is, “… everyone hasContinue reading “If Only He’d Waited! (Part 2)”
If Only He’d Waited!
“When Judas, who had betrayed Him, realized that Jesus had been condemned to die, he was filled with remorse.” (Matthew 27:3a NLT) Not many who come to Christ identify with Judas. Judas’ name is synonymous with “betrayer,” which, of course, he was. The troubling consideration for me is, so was Peter . . . andContinue reading “If Only He’d Waited!”
The Relevancy of Relationship
“Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.” (Luke 12:21 NLT) The word “relationship,” as defined by The Merriam-Webster Dictionary, simply means “the state of being related or interrelated.” Many today have relatives without relationships. And a growing number of people are living togetherContinue reading “The Relevancy of Relationship”
Forgiving Like Jesus
“If another person sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive. Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive.” (Luke 17:3b-4 NLT) How does Jesus forgive? Think of the most insidious, demonic, vile, painful, horrific sin anyone could commit againstContinue reading “Forgiving Like Jesus”
A Few Hours with My Mentor
“Then Jesus said to him, ‘Don’t tell anyone about this. Instead, go to the priest and let him examine you.’” (Matthew 8:4 NLT) Last week I was privileged to spend a few hours with my mentor and friend who recently turned 90 years old. His dementia is worsening, but while we were together, he seemedContinue reading “A Few Hours with My Mentor”
Is Divorce the Answer?
“’For I hate divorce!’ says the Lord, the God of Israel.” (Malachi 2:16a NLT) Our goal as Jesus followers is to follow God and His choices for us, not seek to have Him agree with our choices. What are we to follow? In short, His paths of righteousness. What does that mean? Righteousness simply meansContinue reading “Is Divorce the Answer?”
Is God Good?
“’Why do you call Me good?’ Jesus asked him. ‘Only God is truly good.” (Luke 18:19 NLT) When you think of someone or something “good,” what do you think of? I tend to think of pinto beans and cornbread or cherry pie, but what about you? When you think of God, do you think ofContinue reading “Is God Good?”
What Is Propitiation? (Part 2)
“My dear children, I am writing this to you so that you will not sin.” (1 John 2:1a NLT) We’re picking up here where we left off yesterday. I can’t speak for you, but after following the Lord for nearly 60 years, my sin is more intolerable to me than ever before. I long toContinue reading “What Is Propitiation? (Part 2)”
Walking With Jesus 