If any of you is deficient in wisdom, let him ask of the giving God [Who gives] to everyone liberally and ungrudgingly, without reproaching or faultfinding, and it will be given him. (James 1:5 AMP) I'm often amazed by people's lack of wisdom. Last week, I watched a movie based on a true story ofContinue reading "Wisdom Deficiency"
Turn the Other Cheek
Don't say, "I will get even for this wrong." Wait for the LORD to handle the matter. (Proverbs 20:22 NLT) Does the first part of the verse ring a bell? The Bible constantly reminds us not to have a retaliatory attitude. In Romans 12:19-21, Paul advises the recipients of his letter (who I imagine wereContinue reading "Turn the Other Cheek"
Expect Rejection
A few days later Felix came back with his wife, Drusilla, who was Jewish. Sending for Paul, they listened as he told them about faith in Christ Jesus. As he reasoned with them about righteousness and self-control and the coming day of judgment, Felix became frightened. “Go away for now,” he replied. “When it isContinue reading "Expect Rejection"
Stronger Than Ever
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"
Rising with the Son 