Millions of Christians face persecution. And it will increase in North America too. So what do you do? (It has something to do with retaliation.)
grace
Hypocrisy (on both ends of the spectrum)
“You’re a hypocrite.” Has anyone ever said that to you? It’s a nasty and unpleasant thing! A hypocrite is a pretender—someone who says they believe certain ideals but doesn’t actually live them out in their own life. Hypocrites were the people Jesus often railed against. But guess what? Regardless of your theological leanings, it’s easy to become one!
Grace notes
You've heard the lie before: "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me." The idea is that words—because they are invisible—cannot hurt us. But we know it isn't true. The put down, the threat, the lie that cuts deeper than a knife. Words can have a negative power. BUT... they … Continue reading Grace notes
Hurting trumps busyness
Writer, speaker and scientist Alister McGrath says that “To love God entails loving what God loves.” So who does God love? God loves the emotionally needy. God loves the braggart. God loves the one we overlook. God loves the forgotten. God loves those who are struggling. 1 John 3:18 says, “let us not love with words or … Continue reading Hurting trumps busyness
Generosity you don’t deserve
Aren't all religions the same? I get asked that sometimes. The short answer is no. And here's one of the reasons why (and why it matters... eternally)
The Messiah is living amongst you
What if the Messiah was living in your midst? As this old legend teaches, it could change everything.
Both extremes are hypocritical
“You’re a hypocrite.” Has anyone ever said that to you? It’s a nasty and unpleasant thing! Here's a tool to help you guard against it.
Retaliate
Feel different because of your faith? Marginalized? Maybe even persecuted? Then this is for you.
Amazing grace for a telemarketer?
John 1:16 "And from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace." (ESV) Today's Thought Amazing Grace is one of the best-known hymns. And for a lot of us it conjures up special memories. When I hear it on the bagpipes I think of my Grandpa Ruttan. He was the pipe major in the … Continue reading Amazing grace for a telemarketer?
Lose the guilt
Philippians 2:3-4 “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” (NIV) Today's Thought There are certain bible passages that, to me, are like the mail carrier. They just keep coming back. And … Continue reading Lose the guilt
