”Let the elders who rule well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in preaching and teaching.” (I Timothy 5:17, ESV) For many years October has been designated as Pastor Appreciation Month. Although it is not celebrated worldwide, perhaps it should be. But just as importantly, each…
“. . . Noah was a just man, perfect in his generations. Noah walked with God.” (Genesis 6:9, NKJV) Some may consider the story of Noah and the ark little more than a nice children’s story. It tells about a big boat and lots of animals, and children do enjoy…
“He left Judea and departed again to Galilee . . .But He needed to go through Samaria.” (John 4:3-4, NKJV) Have you ever taken a shortcut that ended up taking more time than the long way? It doesn’t always work well, as I can tell you this from experience. Many…
“Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” (Colossians 3:2, KJV) I suppose I’m curious by nature. I always want to know more than a story tells — the background, the little details that fill in the basic story. This is especially true of some we…
“Do all things without grumbling or disputing.” (Philippians 2:14, ESV) A group of friends went out for a meal together. It wasn’t a special occasion but just a time to relax and talk after a busy week. That was all good. But then I listened a little more closely. Mixed…
“So we may boldly say: ‘The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?’” (Hebrews 13:6, NKJV) The report of twelve men affected the course for an entire nation. Ten held one opinion; two held another. This isn’t a story of current events. It’s…
“You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways . . . You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it.” (Psalm 139:3, 5-6, ESV)…
“I love your sanctuary, LORD, the place where your glorious presence dwells.” (Psalm 26:8, NLT) For just a few brief seconds my mom was distracted, and I was free. My short legs pumping, I dashed away, Caught up in my toddler fun, I did not see the long arm stretching…
“Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth” (I Timothy 2:4). “That person is so sinful that they will never come to God!” Although we would be reluctant to admit it, we sometimes categorize people as “savable” or “unsavable,” We base…