faith

When Compromise Starts Collecting Rent

Scripture Focus: “And the LORD was with Joseph…” (Judges 1:22). “And it came to pass, when Israel was strong, that they put the Canaanites to tribute, and did not utterly drive them out” (Judges 1:28). “And the Amorites forced the children of Dan into the mountain: for they would not suffer them to come down…
Still Standing

“For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river.” — Jeremiah 17:8 There’s something about a good storm that gets my attention. The wind picks up, the rain starts pelting the windows, thunder rolls across the sky, and suddenly everything outside is getting a…
The Storm That Couldn’t Sink a Promise

(Part 2 of a 3-Part Series) Scripture Focus: Acts 27:14–32 When we last saw Paul’s ship, it was moving away from Fair Havens beneath a gentle south wind. The sail had filled, the sea appeared cooperative, and the harbor they preferred seemed close enough to justify leaving the shelter they already had. To everyone aboard,…
Before the Soul Grows Breathless

Scripture Focus: “Pray without ceasing.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:17 One of the things I love about God’s creation is how often it quietly preaches without ever saying a word. Somewhere in the ocean, a dolphin is resting with only half its brain asleep because it must remain alert enough to rise to the surface and…
Guarding the Gateway

Scripture Focus: “…bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” — 2 Corinthians 10:5 Have you ever noticed how one unpleasant moment can seem to erase an entire day of blessings? You might wake up to a beautiful sunrise, enjoy a conversation with a friend that leaves you smiling, receive an unexpected compliment,…
The Measure of Success

Scripture Focus: “Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringth wicked devices to pass.” — Psalm 37:7 Waiting is difficult enough. Waiting while it appears that those who ignore God are getting ahead can test our faith…
The Danger of “Good Enough”

Have you ever found yourself wanting something for another person more than they seem to want it for themselves? Perhaps you’ve watched someone remain in a relationship that continually hurts them, or you’ve encouraged a friend to pursue an opportunity they keep talking themselves out of. Maybe you’ve prayed earnestly for someone to draw closer…
The Presence That Brings Peace

Scripture Focus: “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” ~ John 16:33 If happiness depended upon a trouble-free life, very few people would ever experience it for long. Jesus never promised…
The Measure of Love

True love nurtures growth. It doesn’t simply accept someone as they are and leave them there. It patiently encourages what’s good, gently corrects what’s harmful, extends grace when grace is needed, and quietly draws out the very best in the one it loves. When I stop and think about it, isn’t that exactly how Christ…
Retired… or Reassigned?

I once read a quote often attributed to Benjamin Franklin that has lingered in my mind for years: “Many people die at twenty-five and aren’t buried until they are seventy-five.” Whether he actually said it or not, the thought is sobering. It made me wonder if something similar can happen spiritually among Christians. I’ve noticed…