Religious, evangelical, empowerment, ministry
Why do we celebrate Thanksgiving? For many of us, it is a day of feasting, family, and football. Followed by Black Friday, more football, and Christmas decorating. Thanksgiving Day is a national holiday in the United States and Canada, celebrating the harvest and other blessings of the past year. Americans generally believe their Thanksgiving is… Continue reading Give Thanks
In American culture, we have an entitlement problem. It creates envy when others seem to be fairing better than we are. They call it "privileged." We feel that we are owed the American dream; when we don't get it we are disillusioned, angry at the world, and even God. "What separates privilege from entitlement is… Continue reading Gratitude Changes Everything
How to we live a life that is pleasing to the Lord? Paul explains that there are four elements to that lifestyle. In the letter to the Colossians Paul exhorts them to strengthen their faith. They were fighting false teachings that devalued Christ's supremacy and the adequacy of salvation through Him. This false teaching promoted… Continue reading Living a Life Worthy of the Lord
Why is transition or change so hard for me? Life transitions are challenging because they force us to let go of the familiar and face the future with a feeling of vulnerability. Most life transitions begin with a loss: the loss of a friend, the loss of a role., or the loss of a person.… Continue reading Maintaining peace during change
As a Christian, you should anticipate many changes and transitions as God uses you and your life for glory. Change is good; it is not always fun, but it is good. It is suitable for us and for God's kingdom. Change is a necessary part of life. Change shows we are growing closer to who God… Continue reading Navigating Change in the Christian Life
Most of us came to Christ through actions and conversations with lay people. By a lay person, I mean someone who is not a pastor. Maybe you noticed a peace in their lives that you didn't have. Perhaps you observed a generosity of spirit or kindness. Possibly they saw a need in your life and… Continue reading Are You Reproducing Disciples
The story of Martha and Mary has long been taught as the principle of prioritizing spending time with Jesus. Martha was busy working in the kitchen and trying to be a good hostess while Mary quietly sat at Jesus' feet, learning about her heavenly father. Martha was upset that her sister wouldn't help her with… Continue reading Martha & Mary – the Real Story
I Peter I: 15-16 “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” The word "holy" means to be "set apart." Set apart for God’s service, from the world and its influences, and for His use (ministry). We… Continue reading God has called us to be holy!
The Baptist Faith and Message states, "The kingdom of God includes both His general sovereignty over the universe and His particular kingship over men who willfully acknowledge Him as King." One of my favorite passages about the Kingdom of God is found in the gospel of Matthew, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and… Continue reading The Kingdom of God
“This is the day; this is the day; this is the day that the Lord has made.” I love that song and enjoy humming it to myself on the way to church. Did you ever wonder why the Christian Church worships on the first day of the week, Sunday, rather than the seventh day when… Continue reading The Lord’s Day
