We would also do well to realize that more of the deep and tangible sense of God’s involvement in our lives is available to us. When we pray in the Spirit (Ephesians 6:18), walk by the Spirit (Galatians 5:25), and are led by the Spirit (Romans 8:14), we will experience more of the Lord, who... Continue Reading

We believe, by faith not sight, that the Lord was with Gabe through that perilous final journey as he passed through water and fire. We believe, by faith not sight, that when Jesus called his name and said, “you are mine,” Gabe gladly came. And we also believe that it was our privilege to be... Continue Reading

If a stiff-necked Israelite brought an unblemished animal, such an outward act did not fool the Lord or please the Lord. The Lord knows the heart. Therefore, the Israelites needed to approach the Lord with the offering he would welcome and delight in: a broken and contrite heart.   Because of sin, we are not whole.... Continue Reading

The Holy Spirit enables us to overcome the power of sin. Just as we must put our trust in Christ alone for salvation, we must put our trust in the Holy Spirit for sanctification. The same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead is now at work in us to apply the saving benefits of... Continue Reading

Be known. Select two or three people who aim to build trust with you. Let your community love you. Without this kind of community interaction, both you and your congregation are at great risk. One does not have to dig too far into the annuls of the internet to find churches that have been destroyed... Continue Reading

The souls of the dead—those who repent and believe in Jesus as Savior—find their repose in this heavenly country of eternal peace, where they await the final day when souls are reunited with bodies for all eternity. They do not need our prayers. Pray rather for the living. Make this part of your daily prayer. Pray... Continue Reading

Consider what meekness and self-control are not. Specifically, meekness is not being spineless, and self-control is not being stoic. Moses, David, Paul, and Jesus were certainly not weak men. Indeed, they were fierce and mighty for the truth and for God’s glory. Yet when it came to themselves, they each humbly and patiently endured all... Continue Reading

Each of these points emphasizes the grand, unfolding plan of redemption in which the Root of Jesse stands as the central figure, offering hope, peace, and unity across all nations and generations. Isaiah’s prophecy not only looks forward to the coming Messiah but encapsulates the heart of God’s redemptive love for all peoples.   And... Continue Reading

This is our most basic sin: an exchange is made. God reveals Himself, but we trade in the truth and walk out with the lie. We exchange the glory of God for the glory of the creature. That can be done in a crass way of worshiping a tree, a totem pole, or some kind... Continue Reading

Every time we look to the sky, witness the clouds parting, and see in the place of the storm a rainbow—be it a single or double—we are to be reminded of God’s promise. It is a sign of hope that though sin, evil, and wickedness will face God’s judgment, his justice will not be executed... Continue Reading