“All progress in the Christian life depends upon a recapitulation (an act or instance of summarizing and restating the main points of something) of the original terms of one’s acceptance with God” (John Stott, The Cross of Christ, p. 27). This delightful quote points us to an enduring remedy for all our ills, even that … Continue reading When Discouragement and Despair Knock at Your Door
Devotional Thoughts
True Security – Proverbs 18:10
Proverbs 18:10 – The name of the Lord is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe. What do I see in this text for which I can praise the Lord? True security is found only in the LORD. Again, this name of God (Yahweh) reminds me that the one true living … Continue reading True Security – Proverbs 18:10
When Life Overwhelms – A Simple Prayer for Pentecost Sunday
This coming Sunday we celebrate an important event in redemptive history... the time when Jesus sent the "other helper" who would live within us and empower us for service. Almighty Father we come to you in the blessed name of our Savior Jesus Christ. You have been sending your Spirit for a long time. You sent your … Continue reading When Life Overwhelms – A Simple Prayer for Pentecost Sunday
How Do You Develop a Spiritual Friendship in Marriage?
Click here for a link to a PDF file entitled "Developing Spiritual Friendship in Marriage
Is Beauty the Beast? What does the Bible say?
Key Verses: Proverbs 11:16, 22; 30:18-20; 31:30 In the hearts of women and men, there is a God-given longing to be seen and enjoyed as beautiful or handsome without being used. However, ever since the sons of God saw that the daughters of man were attractive (Genesis 6:2) and came into them (v.4), physical beauty … Continue reading Is Beauty the Beast? What does the Bible say?
A Challenge to All Married Men or Those Soon to be Married
How do you deal with disappointment and difficulty in marriage? If you have been married for any length of time, you have had to learn how to deal with disappointment and difficulty in living together as a married couple working hard to keep your vows. This morning I am in the midst of finalizing a … Continue reading A Challenge to All Married Men or Those Soon to be Married
If Your Marriage is Struggling…
If your marriage is struggling, I would encourage you to reflect on the three Scriptures below and pray mainly for the Lord to change you so that your life reflects their message. Rather than nagging your spouse, why not use these as a grid to pray for them and ask the Lord to work in … Continue reading If Your Marriage is Struggling…
Healthy Church Leaders
Not long ago I had a young elder ask me to mentor him. This coincided with a devotional given to our staff by our pastor at Second Presbyterian Church, Sandy Willson. Thus, below are portions of a letter I wrote using Sandy's outline for healthy church leaders.First of all, thank you for wanting input, friendship, … Continue reading Healthy Church Leaders
Evangelicalism’s Narcissism Epidemic
The below is a link to Anthony Bradley's short article on Evangelicalism's Narcissism Epidemic. I would encourage you to read it and ask the Lord to show you one thing that you resolve to do to bring about changes in your sphere of influence... whether it be your home and kids, your church, your youth … Continue reading Evangelicalism’s Narcissism Epidemic
Praying for A Big-hearted Pastor with Thick Skin
What are the three things that every pastor needs? A mind of a scholar, a heart of a pastor, and a hide of a rhinoceros. Here's a wonderful prayer written by Scotty Smith that you can pray and meditate on for yourself as well as using it to intercede for your pastor. http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scottysmith/2013/05/01/a-prayer-for-thick-skin-and-a-big-heart/
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