I’m a Christian who is also trying to be a Christian. Does that sound strange? What I mean is that I am a Christian because I have professed my loyalty to Jesus as the Lord of my life. But I’m also trying to be a Christian because I know there’s still a lot of work … Continue reading Standing out and blending in
Jesus Christ
Faith isn’t about convenience
Years ago my brother Deric told me a story that has always stuck with me. In an effort to be financially disciplined he used an “envelope system” for his money. When he did his monthly budget, he put different amounts of money into different envelopes. One for groceries, one for gas, one for entertainment—that sort … Continue reading Faith isn’t about convenience
Thought-life springboard
In Matthew 5:8 Jesus says, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” This line has always captured me. I sometimes say it to myself quietly as I go about my day, usually when I feel like I’m mentally wandering or unsure. Not only is it a goal to achieve (purity of … Continue reading Thought-life springboard
When the feeling of love is lacking
I think I’m a pretty loving person. Usually. As long as I’m well-rested, un-rushed, and not feeling overwhelmed by my life! But as soon as I’m tired, rushed, and overwhelmed, I’m a lot less loving! But even in those moments we are called to be the hands and feet of Christ to one another. Even … Continue reading When the feeling of love is lacking
What is the (real) reason for your hope?
“You don’t actually believe in God, do you?” “Why on earth would you read the Bible?” “What reason would possibly make you want to go to church?” Have you ever heard any of those questions? I’m guessing yes. And unfortunately, many of you feel overwhelmed and unprepared to give a response when someone questions your … Continue reading What is the (real) reason for your hope?
God finishes what he starts
We were talking in a restaurant on a Thursday afternoon while eating high-calorie French fries. My friend was telling me how down he was feeling about his spiritual progress. He felt he should be further ahead… and that he often struggled with the sin of pride… and that his devotional life always felt like work. … Continue reading God finishes what he starts
The cure for poor I-sight
It’s no secret that our society is highly individualistic. It often seems like everyone’s elbowing for room in a me-first world where there’s only so much happiness, opportunity or money to go around. From a Christian point of view, the problem is that we’re supposed to put God first—not ourselves. Jesus said, “If anyone would … Continue reading The cure for poor I-sight
Flopping around like a fish
Three friends were walking along the beach and noticed a fish flopping around on the shore. One person wondered if the fish was sad because it didn’t seem to own anything nice. So he bought the fish a gold watch and set it beside him. But nope. It made no difference. It still just flopped around. … Continue reading Flopping around like a fish
At the start, not the end
Many Christians end their prayers something like this: “In Jesus’ name, Amen.” The origins of that practice trace back to a few different Bible passages, but one of them is Jesus’ own words in John 14:14 where he said, “You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” But just … Continue reading At the start, not the end
Out loud
The more you study prayer—and the more you pray—the more you realize there's a lot to know. It can actually be intimidating. So I came up with a saying to help keep my brain on the right track: Pray consistently, whole-heartedly, and expectantly in Jesus’ name. [I walk through this statement step-by-step in my podcast … Continue reading Out loud
