The Road Where Scripture Finds Its Blazing Center

LUKE 24:13–28 The Emmaus disciples believed some of what the prophets taught, but not all. They embraced the promises of the Messiah’s glory while stumbling over the necessity of His sufferings (v. 25). Many still make the same mistake—receiving parts of Scripture while resisting the whole counsel of God. The Walk to Emmaus - Rembrandt … Continue reading The Road Where Scripture Finds Its Blazing Center

Why Read Your Bible? Eight Reasons from J.C. Ryle

One of my favorite authors and pastors from a previous generation is John Charles Ryle. He was a pastor in Liverpool, England back in the 1800s. Here are a few excerpts from a book entitled Practical Religion that I am presently reading. This chapter is simply entitled "Bible Reading." There is hardly any discipline more … Continue reading Why Read Your Bible? Eight Reasons from J.C. Ryle

The Power of the Word of God in a Young Pastor’s Life

J.I. Packer, as a young pastor, found himself “marginalized, isolated and required to work on unfulfilling and flawed agendas, in a manner that made him think of the Israelites having to make bricks for Pharaoh.” He claims to have lived “like Moses in Midian, with frustration in [his] heart, wondering what God could possibly be … Continue reading The Power of the Word of God in a Young Pastor’s Life

Scripture Praying from 2 Timothy

O Lord, show me how to fan into a white hot flame the spiritual gifts that you have given. O Lord, give me grace to endure all things for the sake of those whom You have chosen here in my city so that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with … Continue reading Scripture Praying from 2 Timothy

What would it look like if the Word of the Lord prevailed mightily in your life?

One of the encouraging progress reports in the book of Acts reads like this: "So the word of the Lord continued to increase and prevail mightily" (Acts 19:20). What happens when the Word of the Lord has a prevailing influence in our lives? Ask the Lord to search your heart as you reflect on the … Continue reading What would it look like if the Word of the Lord prevailed mightily in your life?

Praying Psalm 1 and 2

Psalm 1 - Father, oh to be the blessed and fulfilled man of this Psalm.  May this portrait of a life of wisdom be the compelling desire of all of our hearts.  Free us from conducting our lives and making our decisions based upon the advice of those who are hostile to you.  May we … Continue reading Praying Psalm 1 and 2