Every time I read the end of Acts 7, I’m deeply moved by the radical and bold faith of Stephen. He was the first martyr. Beaten. Dragged. Stoned. With his final breath, he echoed the words of his Savior, “Lord, do not hold this sin …
How to Discover Your Spiritual Gift
Does it really matter if you know how to discover your spiritual gift? YES! Here’s what Paul wrote to the church in Corinth. “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be unaware.” (1 Corinthians 12:1) Paul’s intention was not …
Don’t Live Distracted (Part 2)
Yes, we are living in a distracted world. It’s not a new problem, but rather something that’s been around since the beginning of time. Distractions aren’t going away. In fact, they’re increasing and intensifying. Paul warned young Timothy about the dangers of distractions and what …
Don’t Live Distracted (Part 1)
Distraction – “that which divides the attention.” It’s my firm conviction that we are living more and more distracted. Our attention is divided between countless diversions and interruptions. Hang on just a second while I check this email….Okay, I’m back! Think about your average day. …
Do you struggle with guilt?
GUILT – a feeling of responsibility or remorse for some offense, crime, wrong, etc., whether real or imagined. Everyone wrestles with guilt. But what do we do with it? Is guilt something we should all just learn to cope with? Or is there a way …
Everyone Has a Religion – Here’s Your Proof
Everyone has a religion. Everyone worships something. Everyone lives by faith. And by everyone, I mean…everyone. Pay close attention, and you can see a person’s religion and object of worship simply by listening to the words they say. Faith statements aren’t just made in church …
It’s Not Enough to Hear
Imagine this: you’re sitting on a sloping hillside alongside a few dozen other people. There’s a gentle breeze blowing and the mood is anticipatory because you’re getting ready to hear from Jesus–not simply the words of Jesus, but from Jesus Himself. You listen intently for …
The First Sermon Jesus Preached
Jesus doesn’t see the crowd. He sees every face and He knows every name. He knows exactly what each person’s struggle is. He knows their insecurities and fears. He sees the scars, the hurt, and the pain. He knows their hearts.
What does it mean to live by faith?
What does it mean to live by faith? Does it mean you don’t save for retirement because doing so might suggest you don’t trust God with your future? Does it mean you swim with crocodiles because you have faith God will protect you? Does it …
The Seven L’s of Dad Life
The good news is you’re a dad. And there’s nothing more satisfying than being Dad to your kiddos. The bad news is you’re a dad. And there’s nothing more terrifying than being Dad to your kiddos. Some days being Dad is satisfying. Big hugs, catch …
3 Careful Reminders about Church People
Several years ago I ran a 1/2 marathon. I remember the exhilaration I felt as I crossed the finish line having run 13.2 miles. I had accomplished my BHAG. (If you aren’t sure what that is check out Jim Collin’s book Built to Last.) But …
Where do we put our hope?
A mother stood over her son’s lifeless body. He was murdered. His life cut short unjustly, but not by a stranger. He was attacked by his own brother. The mother wept.
Four Family Resources
Calling all Parents, We have a blog for you! First, we care about you, and we are praying for you and your family in this unique season of life. Now, I know you might be using your only five free minutes of the day to …
What Jesus’ mission reveals about your significance.
How do you measure significance? How do you calculate the true value someone or something has in your life? It’s simple. True significance is measured by how you respond when the person or thing is lost. Think about it. When your sock is lost, more …