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inspiration

Aren’t all religions basically the same?

August 2, 2017August 1, 2017 / Matthew Ruttan / Leave a comment

It’s a good question. After all, we live in a diverse society, and a lot of religions speak about some kind of higher power and have a version of the golden rule. I can’t fully explore this issue in a short devotional. (To hear a longer podcast about it click on the link below.) But it needs … Continue reading Aren’t all religions basically the same?

The boogeyman?

August 1, 2017July 31, 2017 / Matthew Ruttan / Leave a comment

Kids sometimes imagine there's a boogeyman under their bed. As adults, we don't really think like that anymore. Or do we? Here's a thought about running toward your questions, and not away from them.

That’s what normal awesome people do

July 29, 2017July 28, 2017 / Matthew Ruttan / Leave a comment

Before I became a pastor I had a number of different jobs—and therefore, a number of different bosses. I saw different characteristics at work in each of them. Some were positive, and some were negative. But one of the most problematic bosses was unpredictable. He was so inconsistent that he put everyone on edge. If … Continue reading That’s what normal awesome people do

The 7-Day No Complaint Challenge

July 28, 2017July 27, 2017 / Matthew Ruttan / Leave a comment

Thou shalt not complain. You’re right. It’s not one of the 10 commandments. But the Bible certainly warns against complaining all the time. I think about the ancient Hebrews complaining to Moses in the wilderness. Or Philippians 2:14-15 (NLT) where Paul says this: “Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize … Continue reading The 7-Day No Complaint Challenge

You will never make a good impression if…

July 27, 2017July 26, 2017 / Matthew Ruttan / Leave a comment

Most of us check the mirror in the morning, usually while combing our hair or brushing our teeth. Then we walk away from the mirror. But not really. A lot of us carry an invisible mirror around with us all day. What I mean is that we’re aware of ourselves. We’re aware of the impression we’re … Continue reading You will never make a good impression if…

Credit where credit is due

July 26, 2017July 25, 2017 / Matthew Ruttan / Leave a comment

Imagine your best friend did something wonderful for you—like fix your broken garage door for free. They bought the parts, put in free labour, and even gave it a nice new paint job. The next day, some people come over and admire your spectacular garage door. What do you say? Do you say, “Thanks! I’m … Continue reading Credit where credit is due

None of it goes to waste

July 25, 2017July 24, 2017 / Matthew Ruttan / Leave a comment

It’s easy to get down in life. We wonder: “Am I making a difference?” or “How do I know if I’m living true to God’s plan?” A part of the reason we can get frustrated is because we can’t always see the fruit of our labour. We live each day and don’t know if the … Continue reading None of it goes to waste

Despite the odds

July 22, 2017July 21, 2017 / Matthew Ruttan / Leave a comment

Who would you put in the following blank? When I think of someone who is courageous, I think of ________________. When I do it, my first instinct is to think about people who’ve done incredible things in the face of adversity. Through the years I’ve known World War Two veterans, so I think of them. … Continue reading Despite the odds

#LookAtHowGreatIAm

July 21, 2017July 20, 2017 / Matthew Ruttan / Leave a comment

Our egos are like Jabba the Hutt. They can be hungry, self-serving beasts who are always wanting more. Today's devo suggests one thing you can do to up your sincerity before God, making your kindness a bit more about him and less about you.

Maybe they’re not the ones with the claws

July 20, 2017July 20, 2017 / Matthew Ruttan / Leave a comment

Someone has wronged you. You'd like to forgive them, but you just can't. This perspective could be a game-changer for you, making you lighter and more free.

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