"When Providence has removed your parents by death, the best methods ought to be taken, not only for preventing quarrels among the children (which often happens over the dividing of the estate), but for the preserving of love so that unity may continue even when that center of unity is taken away." - Matthew Henry, Presbyterian pastor … Continue reading When The Time Comes to Divide the Family Estate
forgiveness
The Majesty of a Forgiving Father
Psalm 130:4 sets forth one of the greatest discoveries that we can ever make: “With you (the LORD) there is forgiveness, that you may be feared.” According to John Stott, this verse “contains a beautiful balance because its first part brings assurance to the despairing, while its second part sounds a warning to the presumptuous.” How … Continue reading The Majesty of a Forgiving Father
In the Name of Jesus: Reflections on Christian Leadership
At least once a year, I read the booklet by Henri Nouwen entitled In the Name of Jesus: Reflections on Christian Leadership. He uses two key passages to unpack the nature of Christian leadership: Matthew 4:1-11 and John 21:15-21. In this book he discusses three temptations which all leaders face. Temptation 1: The Temptation to … Continue reading In the Name of Jesus: Reflections on Christian Leadership
When You Are Misunderstood
It is the characteristic of our Adamic residue to find it difficult to believe in the nobility of others. Joseph's brothers measured Joseph by themselves. In our suspicions of other people we often reveal ourselves and our own hearts. There is scarcely anything more trying and searching in life than the experience of being misunderstood, … Continue reading When You Are Misunderstood
Reflections on Repentance that Leads to Life
The believer in Christ is a ‘lifelong’ repenter. He begins with repentance, and ends with repentance. Repentance is a change of mind regarding sin and God, an inward turning from sin to God. Repentance is hating what you once loved, and loving what you once hated, exchanging irresistible sin for an irresistible Christ. — Jim … Continue reading Reflections on Repentance that Leads to Life
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…
Treasuring Forgiveness – Matthew 18
Link: Treasure Forgiveness - Matthew 18:12-35 Monday: Matthew 18:35 is a hard saying of Jesus. Is God’s forgiveness of us conditional upon our forgiving of others? How would you answer this question from God’s Word? Next, reflect on this summary of what Jesus is saying in this parable: “No true follower of mine will act … Continue reading Treasuring Forgiveness – Matthew 18
Excerpt from Queen Elizabeth’s Christmas Address
"Although we are capable of great acts of kindness, history teaches us that we sometimes [or a little more] need saving from ourselves. From our recklessness or our greed. God sent into the world a unique person--neither a philosopher nor a general. . .But a Savior, with the power to forgive. Forgiveness lies at the … Continue reading Excerpt from Queen Elizabeth’s Christmas Address
Personal/Family Worship Guides
We want to urge you to take some time during the week to worship God personally and with your family. These guides serve to develop further the themes of our corporate worship services. Simple Church (Isaiah 40:1-11). This devotional guide delves into the mission of our church. Isaiah's prophecy highlights four non-negotiables: There is a … Continue reading Personal/Family Worship Guides
A Man for Others in Loving Forgiveness
How are you doing in modeling the gospel with others? A man for others embodies the gospel by forgiving others the same way that God in Christ has forgiven you. (Philippians 2:2 - "Make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.") Ephesians 4:31-32 – Let all … Continue reading A Man for Others in Loving Forgiveness
2Cherish2Commend 