When you open your heart to Jesus, you begin to think about the elements that make up a life of intimacy, such as Bible study, prayer, and worship. So, you say, “Today I’ll pray for 30 minutes.” or “Tomorrow I’ll read three chapters in the Bible.” And although it’s good to set aside time for […]
Get free from the struggle
Oswald Chambers once said, “Doing God’s will is never hard. The only thing that is hard is not doing His will.” I can almost hear some of you saying, “But that’s not right. It is hard to live a godly life. The struggle is real!” If you disagree with Chambers, read on. I hope you’ll see that the […]
A chore, a duty, or a delight?
Lately I’ve been reading about Smith Wigglesworth, the British minister who saw so many miracles in his work (salvation, healing, deliverance, and even resurrection from the dead). His ministry was mighty because he delighted in doing what God asked him to do. Are we the same? When God asks us to do something, is it […]
Declutter the furniture in your mind
The American author and educator Frank E. Gaebelein, once said, “As a Christian, I am responsible for the furniture of my mind.” I don’t know about you, but more than ever, it feels like the furniture in my mind is overcrowded, messy, and well, just plain annoying. If you have a brain full of unwanted […]
Quick! Grab a fig leaf!
“Quick grab some fig leaves and hide!” That’s pretty much what Adam and Eve said to one another after they sinned against God. We’re not too different. We sin, try to cover it up, then run from God. We hide behind excuses and self-justification, then escape to social media, gaming, alcohol, sex, sports, or any […]
When they hate, insult, and lie
On a return trip from ministry in England, my friend Joni and I were walking through the airport when a stranger coming toward us suddenly stopped and snarled, “I HATE YOU!” We were surprised, but we also rejoiced, knowing we must have done something good for God on that trip. Jesus said, “Blessed are you […]