For the past few devotionals we have been reflecting on God’s providence. That’s his invisible hand, working in the lives of his people even when they can’t see it. Let’s continue with that encouraging theme. In World War One a troupe was engaged in trench warfare. A lieutenant told his men to sneak across a … Continue reading Because that’s what friends do
loyalty
A practical suggestion: Making those words your words
I’d like to give you a practical suggestion that may be helpful for your own devotional life. In Romans 6:17 Paul tells his readers this: “But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed … Continue reading A practical suggestion: Making those words your words
The wandering eye
As we run with perseverance the race before us, Hebrews 12:2 says we are to be “fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” Let’s look at a few other translations of these words: The CSB translation: “keeping our eyes on Jesus”The NET: “keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus”The ESV: “looking to … Continue reading The wandering eye
“Successful” or faithful?
A university professor was at the pinnacle of his career. He had so many options and opportunities spreading out before him. But he resigned. Why? To take care of his wife who was suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. I’m sure many of you already know how horrible it can be. A “friend” of his—someone who knew … Continue reading “Successful” or faithful?
Lukewarm or loyal?
In the Bible, the word “love” is close to what we mean today when we talk about “loyalty.” To love God is to be loyal to the God who made us, saves us, provides for us, and guides us no matter what we’re going through. Consider Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. In Daniel 3 they were … Continue reading Lukewarm or loyal?
Being loyal… to God
Yesterday I said that we can misunderstand what Jesus meant when he used the word “love.” I suggested that the word he used for “love” was close in meaning to “loyalty.” It is to have a kind of committed attachment to someone as a fellow child of God, and to seek God’s best for them. … Continue reading Being loyal… to God
Love by being… loyal
It’s easy to misunderstand what the Bible means by “love.” In today’s world, we use that word for so many different things. We say we “love” basketball, or we “love” someone’s new outfit, or we “love” the new Avengers movie. In this sense, “love” is just REALLY liking something. It’s like “like” on steroids. But … Continue reading Love by being… loyal
The best way to stand up for someone?
Sometimes standing up for someone is simpler than you think. Just take this advice from a 2-year old...
Downton Abbey and Maundy Thursday
Today is Maundy Thursday. “Maundy” comes from the Latin word for “command” in John 13:34. Jesus says, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” So on Maundy Thursday some churches hold intimate, simple gatherings before the fireworks of Easter to sing, pray, … Continue reading Downton Abbey and Maundy Thursday
Staring at a loaded gun she still said Yes
Is your belief in God rooted in how good God is to you, or in the goodness of God? One of the most inspiring biblical stories is of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. Because of their unswerving loyalty to God they refuse to worship the false gods of King Nebuchadnezzar. So they’re threatened. Either bow down … Continue reading Staring at a loaded gun she still said Yes
