Luke six is a chapter full of profound topics and amazing lessons, especially since it contains the Beautitudes. I could write several posts on this chapter alone-and I may- but for today I want to dive into verses 20 through 26. Let’s begin with the first four verses: “And he lifted up his eyes […]
A Truth and a Lie
One of the most amazing things about Jesus is that he not only came and died for us but before that, he took the time to understand us. Before he even started his ministry, he spent thirty years just living, understanding the human experience. He was tempted in every way we are, so he understands […]
A Shepherd’s Tale
There I was, propped up against a rock in the middle of a field, trying to stay awake at least enough to keep track of the sheep. It had been a long day. We saw a lion to the east and had to steer the flock closer to Bethlehem so it didn’t cause any trouble. […]
Fear and Trembling
I was recently reading a biography of George Muller, and I came across something I would like to share. After he preached his first sermon at a little country church while he was in seminary, he was struck by how much greater an impact a simple sermon had over that of a complex theological masterpiece. […]
When Necessary, Use Words
“Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary, use words.” – Saint Francis of Assisi These famous words of Saint Francis of Assisi are often quoted by those who are fed up with the church not practicing what it preaches. They are meant to illustrate the point that if we don’t actually live out the […]
Only
“Two things I ask of you, Lord; do not refuse me before I die: Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and […]
George Muller, Man of Great Faith
George Müller is remembered today for his great faith and mountain-moving prayers. He didn’t begin life as the saint he is known as today, though. Quite the opposite, in fact. Up until partway through his university years, he was a thief, a gambler, and a liar. In fact, the only reason he had agreed to […]
The Church and the World
In 1 Corinthians 5, Paul addresses a rather sensitive and oft-avoided topic in the church. In this chapter, he discusses the issues of immorality in the church, excommunication, and the difference between those in the church and those outside of it. Let’s read the beginning of the chapter and dive into its meaning: “It is […]
Living and Surviving
“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose.” – Jim Elliot Probably the most famous quote by the late missionary Jim Elliot, it is the polar opposite of what we are taught nearly everywhere else but the Bible. We care a whole lot more about safety and […]
Ordinary Folk
“Saruman believes it is only great power that can hold evil in check, but that is not what I have found. I found it is the small everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keep the darkness at bay… small acts of kindness and love.” – Gandalf Ah Gandalf, wizard of Middle Earth, lover of Hobbits, […]