Recent Devotions
“And say to Archippus, “See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord.” (Colossians 4:17, ESV) Reading the Bible is an adventure. I meet new people, discover new places, and learn new lessons. Sometimes I only receive a hint of a story, and that makes me curious. That’s what happened when I came across the name Archippus during my study time. Who was Archippus? He is mentioned only twice in Paul’s writings, once in Colossians and once in Philemon. Most scholars assume he is the son of Philemon and Apphia. What we do know is: (1)…
“I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten while in my chains, who once was unprofitable to you, but now is profitable to you and to me.” (Philemon 10-11) One of the shortest books in the Bible is actually a personal letter written by the apostle…
“My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” (James 1:2-4, NKJV) When James tells us we are to “count it all…
Readers Loved
Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel. (Proverbs 27:9, ESV) A group of friends came over recently, something we hadn’t done for quite a while because of the pandemic. Even though I was the hostess, I think I can honestly say everyone had a good time. Want to know one way I judged their enjoyment? Because no one was staring at their cell phone, and everyone was engaged in lively conversation. We told stories, shared thoughts, and laughed a lot. And, of course, we ate. What fun to spend…
“Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. . . . never avenge yourselves . . . Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:17, 19, 21, ESV) The World of God may have been written many centuries ago, but it is just as relevant today. When we follow its principles, the Bible works in any situation, any culture, and any age group. God’s Word is really a guidebook for life. But, just like those instruction manuals that come with things we purchase, we…
“And David said to Solomon, My son, as for me, it was in my mind to build an house unto the name of the LORD my God:……..Behold, a son shall be born to thee, who shall be a man of rest;…………..He shall build an house for my name.” I Chronicles 22:7-10 David felt he had been greatly blessed by God, and he desired to build a great building wherein the ark of God would dwell and where God could meet with His people. He started gathering materials suitable for such an undertaking. But God spoke to him and told him…
“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” I John 4:18. Fear entered my room. I was paralyzed. Something powerful had hold of me, like a heavy weight on my back. I have never felt anything like it and hope I never do again. I began to plead the blood of the Lord and cry out for Jesus to help me. I felt whatever it was let go, and I became fully awake. My heart was pounding, it had been so real. I…
