“…continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (Philippians 2:12-13). If only. If only I had fewer problems in my past… If only I was a better speaker… If only I had more … Continue reading When you feel unqualified
faith in action
From observation to participation
In Mark 6 Jesus fed a crowd of 5,000 men with only five loaves and two fish. Before he did so, the disciples had wanted to send the people away so they could get some food. That’s when Jesus looked at them and said, “You give them something to eat” (verse 37). In the Greek, … Continue reading From observation to participation
Unless you go forward
There are times when we struggle with our faith. Perhaps we have an unanswered question. Perhaps we’ve experienced something that makes us doubt. Whatever it is, it can make us feel… Stuck. When that happens you should definitely pray, learn and talk to others. But there’s something else, and it’s today’s focus: don’t stop moving. … Continue reading Unless you go forward
Follow through
In this series of devotionals we’re talking about how to get the most out of a sermon. Since sermons are a major part of Sunday worship, and since you attend as often as you can, they are going to be a significant part of your discipleship. Here’s one more tip: Follow through on the applications. … Continue reading Follow through
Walking with Jesus
In John 5:32 Jesus said: “There is another who testifies in my favor, and I know that his testimony about me is true.” In yesterday’s devotional I said that the key to weathering a storm is who you’re weathering it with. Perhaps the first thing that comes to mind is a healthy support system—and that … Continue reading Walking with Jesus
Glad and sincere hearts
There is something very attractive and very compelling about true goodness and godliness in action. Consider this picture of the church in Acts 2:46-47: “They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number … Continue reading Glad and sincere hearts
