Followers of Jesus are called to a high ethical standard. Do you ever read about those standards in the Bible and then feel bad because you realize of how often you mess up? Maybe it’s the passage about loving your neighbour (Mark 12:31), or even your enemy (Matthew 5:44). Or maybe it’s Colossians 3:12: “clothe … Continue reading When high ethical standards seem hard
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4 ways to draw closer to God
James 4:8 says, “Come near to God and he will come near to you.” When we cultivate a closer relationship with God, we experience his power and presence more and more. Consider the example of Mary. In her famous song of praise in Luke 1:46-55, she shows how she is close to God in at … Continue reading 4 ways to draw closer to God
#Blessed?
#Blessed is a really popular hashtag, especially at this time of year. When posting pics many people—including myself—will say we’re somehow #blessed and that God has been good to us. To be honest, I love seeing it. It's an awareness of God as a loving provider. But get this. In Luke 11:27-28 a woman in … Continue reading #Blessed?
How to memorize a Bible passage [with Video]
I’ve talked before about memorizing Bible verses as a way to grow spiritually. But I realize some people find it difficult. So I did a short video with some tips. [Click the link below to watch.] Here’s a summary. 1. Pick a passage For this example, let’s choose 2 Timothy 3:16-17: “All Scripture is God-breathed … Continue reading How to memorize a Bible passage [with Video]
Being persecuted for the right (not wrong) reasons
For a few days this week I’m sharing some thoughts about Matthew 24. It’s where Jesus answers a question about when the Jerusalem temple would be torn down, and also when he would return at the “end of the age” (v. 3). In response, he offers various insights about what to expect, including this: “Then … Continue reading Being persecuted for the right (not wrong) reasons
Take the word with you
Today I’d like to offer a very practical, super-simple, down-to-earth, easy-peasy, knock-it-out-of-the-park idea: Take your Bible with you. Let me explain. Followers of Jesus think the Bible is very important. It’s the primary place where we learn about God’s will and wisdom for our lives. Many of us hold the conviction—as I hope you do—that … Continue reading Take the word with you
For when you can’t see the fruits of your labour
Yesterday we talked about leaving a legacy of love with your life. It’s a big topic, I know. And it can be discouraging—especially when you think you keep missing the mark and never see any results. You read the Bible, pray, try to love others in your own small way, but wonder if any of … Continue reading For when you can’t see the fruits of your labour
A Bible in 23 pieces
In July 2007, 23 missionaries were held hostage by the Taliban in Afghanistan. Two of those missionaries were killed by the Taliban before the rest were released back to South Korea. One of the survivors tells a little-known story about their time together in captivity as prisoners. On their last night together before they were … Continue reading A Bible in 23 pieces
Cherish the life-giving gift
The parable of the sower is one of Jesus’ most famous. It describes a farmer who sows some seed. The seed represents God’s word—in short, the message of and about Jesus. Some of that seed falls on a path and some birds quickly eat it up. Some of the seed falls on rocky terrain and … Continue reading Cherish the life-giving gift
They can’t command the same brain at the same time
Worry. It can rob you of contentment. You know it. I know it. We all know it! Maybe that’s why Jesus’ words in the Sermon on the Mount are so poignant, powerful and popular: “do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear… Can … Continue reading They can’t command the same brain at the same time
