There are problems everywhere. But there aren’t ONLY problems. There are blessings too. They are gifts from God. To notice you may need to give yourself permission to smile and to enjoy life a little more often. Life can be hard. There are serious issues in the world. Because of this, we can focus (almost … Continue reading Permission to smile
Rushing is not a friend of noticing
In yesterday’s devotional I spoke about the ‘art of noticing.’ It was about the art of noticing God’s goodness all around us. This doesn’t mean that everything in your life is good. But everything that is good is from God. James 1:17 reminds us of this very fact: “Every good and perfect gift is from … Continue reading Rushing is not a friend of noticing
Encased in grace
God showers the people of his world with blessing. That’s not to say that every situation is good. But everything that happens which is good comes from God. In fact, you experience many godly blessings each and every day that you probably don’t even realize. Blessing is happening all around you. All of them are … Continue reading Encased in grace
Shallow positivity
The people in the TV commercials are always so happy. I know, I know—they’re actors. But it makes me think of the phrase “shallow positivity.” Shallow positivity is the idea that we’re supposed to be happy all the time. Although not many of us would agree that we’re supposed to be happy all the time, … Continue reading Shallow positivity
Soul gription
What are your stability structures for the coming storm? I don’t mean to be alarming. However, Jesus said that before his return there would be wars, rumours of wars, increased Christian persecution, false Messiahs, more lawlessness, and less love. That’s no walk in the park. So when I ask about your ‘stability structures’ I’m referring … Continue reading Soul gription
Sunday School Teachers
“These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children” (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). People who volunteer to teach Sunday School are special. Some churches called it “Youth Zone” or “Kids’ Club” or something else. No matter what you call it, it is a valuable ministry to our young … Continue reading Sunday School Teachers
The prayer life of Jesus
Have you ever wondered what Jesus’ prayer life was like? We know what he taught about prayer because those teachings are preserved in the New Testament. But what was his actual personal practice? Theologian Joachim Jeremias explains the daily habits of devout Jews in the first century. First, he would have said the Shema in … Continue reading The prayer life of Jesus
Always. Even if it’s getting dark
Jesus is coming back. He said so. But before that happens he said there will be wars and rumours of war, increased Christian persecution, false Messiahs, more lawlessness, and less love. Wow. The church in Thessalonica wanted to know how to live in light of these realities. They knew Jesus would be coming back, and … Continue reading Always. Even if it’s getting dark
Inner health made audible
I like to be healthy. I’m sure you like to be healthy as well. When we hear the word ‘health,’ the first thing many of us think about is physical health. A cold or a broken bone disrupts our physical health. There is also mental health. Fortunately, more people are talking about mental well-being, and … Continue reading Inner health made audible
Pray (always) and don’t give up (always)
Bob Goff really wanted to be a lawyer. He applied to law school, but got rejected. Undeterred, he went to the dean’s office. Goff said that the dean had the power to let him into the school. If he said four words--"Go buy your books"--he would change his life forever for the better. But the … Continue reading Pray (always) and don’t give up (always)
