Jul 23, 2021 | Inspiration, Refreshment
We need rest. Scripture teaches that we are dust (Gen. 3:19). Unlike God, we tire. We are finite creatures. We need sleep and refreshment. John Piper reminds us: “Sleep is a daily reminder from God that we are not God….Once a day God sense us to bed like patients with...
Jul 22, 2021 | Inspiration
In essence, church communities are a type of chosen family. When you share a faith experience with someone, week in and week out, you come to know them on a personal level. One of the ways church members are called to do their part is to care for older churchgoers....
Jul 21, 2021 | Inspiration
One of the unique values of corporate spiritual practices —those experienced regularly on Sunday mornings —is that they shape and direct our desire for God in ways that private disciplines fail to replicate. Over time, habits and rituals, combined with pertinent...
Jul 16, 2021 | Perspectives
As we sit in the back pew and look around, we notice the dearth of people and wonder: Has Jesus left the building? COVID-19 has been foremost in many minds for over a year. We’ve all had our lives restricted, have had to follow orders in our personal lives from the...
Jul 15, 2021 | Refreshment
Sometimes a fresh look at the obvious yields a bombshell. At age 20, my life was crushed and rebuilt by one small challenge. Could it change yours as well? For fifteen years as I speak and travel talking to people about my conversion to Christianity. I have been...
Jul 14, 2021 | Inspiration
Born of trauma, loss, chaos, and injustice, the Victim mentality often feels like a strange form of justice or protection. It can cause you to become so self-focused and defensive that you incrementally push others away. The Victim Identity continually seeks attention...
Jul 13, 2021 | Inspiration
Imagine being significantly free of worry and anxiety. What would that be like? Deep peace. Sound sleep. Full attention. Is that a quality of life you desire? Do you think it’s possible? In the teaching on the hill Jesus said, “Do not worry about your life.” The...
Jul 9, 2021 | Inspiration
My good friend Jason used to be an outstanding pastor and preacher. After a church split and two other hard experiences, though, Jason no longer felt God was in His life. “God,” Jason prayed, “if You are real, say something. I need to hear You speak to me.” Jason...
Jul 8, 2021 | Inspiration
After a year of social distancing, isolation at home and all the overarching pandemic woes, most of us are itching for a proper summer vacation. Dreaming about returning to that holiday ritual, my wife, Amy, recently found an old picture of me on the beach in San...