Okay, time to think big about something many of us have probably not thought enough about. When we think about “spiritual warfare” we often think about temptation, the Devil, or personal battles. That makes sense. But have you ever wondered why Satan and his demons hate us? It’s a big topic. I won’t pretend to … Continue reading To destroy the works of the devil
Attention to detail
The biblical stories are filled with details. Although some of them may seem curious or confusing, they are significant. Since they are inspired by God (2 Timothy 3:16) they are there for a reason. And if they exist to teach us and give us hope—which Romans 15:4 says they are—then we are wise to pay … Continue reading Attention to detail
Vantage Point
“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope” (Romans 15:4). Each of the four Gospels tells us something important about the life and significance of Christ. A common illustration people sometimes use … Continue reading Vantage Point
Too-small-ism
Oswald Chambers said: “Sometimes it looks like God is missing the mark because we’re too short-sighted to see what He’s aiming for.” Have you ever thought that God is missing the mark? Well, as Chambers suggests, perhaps we’re just not thinking big enough. Even as Christians we can compartmentalize certain biblical ideas. Let’s call it … Continue reading Too-small-ism
Playing it safe
Jesus said: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you … Continue reading Playing it safe
Come near to God and he will come near to you
A beloved New Testament verse is James 4:8: “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” Let’s note a few things. First, it’s a promise. When you come near (or “draw near”) to God, he will come near to you. Not “might,” but “will.” Second, how do we come near to a … Continue reading Come near to God and he will come near to you
A biblical definition of humility
In yesterday’s devotional I shared a few words about success. More specifically, that success in God’s eyes has to do with humble faithfulness. James was a wise church leader and a half-brother of Jesus. He brings this into focus as he corrects some people about their behaviour: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will … Continue reading A biblical definition of humility
What is success?
What do you want to be successful at? Perhaps it has to do with your career or schooling. Perhaps it has to do with your relationships or a personal goal that only you know about. If we want to be “successful,” we need to be aware of how we define that term. It’s easy to … Continue reading What is success?
September’s Fresh Start
Proverbs 19:21 is quite well-known: “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.” Ultimately, God’s purpose will prevail. It cannot be thwarted or undone. His victory is past tense and present tense and future tense. It is both glorious and inescapable. When something is that certain, and … Continue reading September’s Fresh Start
Internal civil war?
Edward the Confessor was the last Anglo-Saxon king of England. According to some monks who knew him, he was a gentle man. But after he died, there was chaos and violence. The reason for this was because his throne was contested. Since there was no clear successor, bloodshed flooded the land. Let’s notice that all … Continue reading Internal civil war?
