In our society, the words “rich” and “poor” have dual meanings. On one hand, someone is “rich” when they have a lot of money, and someone is “poor” when they don’t. But we also think people are “rich” when they have wisdom and strong friendships. In the same way, someone is “poor” when they neglect … Continue reading Priceless!
inspiration
It all goes back in the box
Jesus told his followers to avoid storing up “treasures on earth.” These are things that don’t last—things like homes, money, and material things. Are they evil in and of themselves? Of course not. As a means to an end, they can be useful. But as ends in themselves, they can be distracting and devastating. Instead, … Continue reading It all goes back in the box
Getting your head in the game
When I was small my Little League team would say a cheer right before we ran onto the field. It was a way to rally ourselves and focus on what we were about to do. Maybe it seems strange, but it can be good practice to have a ritual before you read your Bible too. … Continue reading Getting your head in the game
Jerked up by the collar
What do you expect when you worship God? Some of us expect to give something—whether it be our time, talent, money, voice, or prayers. But many of us expect to get something too—whether it be teaching, or friendship, or inspiration, or even comfort. Today I want to focus on the idea of comfort. Don’t get … Continue reading Jerked up by the collar
Living in the time of God’s patience
Every day a woman I know wakes up, looks out her window, and says, “One more day, Lord, one more day.” She’s referring to the fact that Jesus hasn’t returned yet. As a result, we have—at least—one more day. There’s a lot of speculation about when Jesus will victoriously return to judge the world and make … Continue reading Living in the time of God’s patience
Abstract faith dies
I live close to an amusement park called Canada’s Wonderland. It has roller coasters, rides, and sugary-foods galore. I first learned about it in T.V. commercials when I was small. I could even tell you where it was, what the sign looked like, and the names of some of the big rides. But it wasn’t … Continue reading Abstract faith dies
Life’s golden sweet spot
In high school I loved to sit around and play guitar and sing with my friends. Sometimes the best part was coming up with harmonies. When we hit the right notes it was like sliding into a golden sweet spot. But since we were pretty new at it, our guitar chords would occasionally be out … Continue reading Life’s golden sweet spot
Getting unstuck
Do you ever feel like you’re stuck? Like what you’re doing on a day-to-day basis isn’t getting you closer to your goals? If so, you’re not alone. But don’t fear. There’s hope! Consider Moses. After he led the Hebrews out of slavery in Egypt he found himself stuck. He was serving as a leader and … Continue reading Getting unstuck
Cheap Diversity vs Rich Diversity
“Diversity” is a big deal these days. It’s the idea that we should be accepting of people from different cultures, backgrounds and beliefs. For me, it brings to mind Psalm 133:1 where it says, “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!” But there are two kinds of diversity. There’s cheap … Continue reading Cheap Diversity vs Rich Diversity
If you glorify the past
I’m no stranger to nostalgia. I like looking back and remembering the good ole days. But is there a point when looking back too much is harmful? I believe that if you glorify the past you handcuff the present. In other words, if you put too much stock in what has happened in the past, … Continue reading If you glorify the past
