We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. (2 Corinthians 4:8-9 NIV) It’s been often said that “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger,” and I believe that this is the point that Paul is making in today’s passage.Continue reading "Stronger Than Ever"
Be a Light-Bearer
“This is the crisis we’re in: God-light streamed into the world, but men and women everywhere ran for the darkness. They went for the darkness because they were not really interested in pleasing God. Everyone who makes a practice of doing evil, addicted to denial and illusion, hates God-light and won’t come near it, fearingContinue reading "Be a Light-Bearer"
Recognized By Our Fruit
But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23 NLT) Speaking of false prophets Jesus said, “By their fruit you will recognize them” (Matthew 7:16 NIV). The same is true of God’s children. Only by our fruit will people beContinue reading "Recognized By Our Fruit"
Forsake and Follow
So they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him. (Luke 5:11 NIV) As fishermen, Peter and his companions worked hard all night to catch fish, but failed. Then Jesus showed up and made it possible for them to catch not just some fish, but a large number to the point thatContinue reading "Forsake and Follow"
Having a Servant’s Heart
Who do people think is the greatest, a person who is served or one who serves? Isn’t it the one who is served? But I have been with you as a servant. (Luke 22:27 CEV) “As you seek to serve others, as you have me, may our Father bless your servant’s heart,” read the noteContinue reading "Having a Servant’s Heart"
Fulfill Your Duties
“So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, 'We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.'" (Luke 17:10) God wants us to fulfill our duties to Him and others without expecting anything in return, not even a simple, “Thank you!” Jesus gave His disciples the followingContinue reading "Fulfill Your Duties"
Follow in His Footsteps
“But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Luke 6:27-28 NIV) Jesus always practiced what He preached. When Peter struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear, Jesus “touched the man’sContinue reading "Follow in His Footsteps"
Belonging to Christ
The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch. (Acts 11:26 NIV) The disciples were identified as followers of Christ no doubt because their lives exemplified His character. Many people carry this title, not realizing its implication. Whenever we claim that we’re Christian, we’re saying that we belong to Christ, and belonging to Christ means thatContinue reading "Belonging to Christ"
Don’t Follow to Unfollow
Someone had the following quote on their social media profile, "Don't follow to unfollow." Those who are familiar with how social media works know what that means. The person is simply saying, "Don't follow me only to unfollow me later." I was reminded of John 6 where many who had been following Jesus stopped followingContinue reading "Don’t Follow to Unfollow"
Are You Following Him?
After this a lot of his disciples left. They no longer wanted to be associated with him. Then Jesus gave the Twelve their chance: “Do you also want to leave?” Peter replied, “Master, to whom would we go? You have the words of real life, eternal life. We’ve already committed ourselves, confident that you areContinue reading "Are You Following Him?"
Rising with the Son 