Ecclesiastes 4:12 says: “A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” True. One cord is more easily broken than a braid with three strands of that same cord. But like so many other things in the Bible, it’s a concept that can be applied more widely. Let’s say you are one strand. By yourself, … Continue reading A cord of three strands
relationship with God
Playing the part, neglecting the heart
This week I’ve been talking about when we try to satisfy our deepest spiritual appetites with things or people who aren’t God. Today let me share one last idea. This is something people do to satisfy their spiritual cravings, but in so doing miss the point. It’s religion. Wait, isn’t religion good? Yes it is. … Continue reading Playing the part, neglecting the heart
Uncertainty, opportunity, intimacy
There is a lot to feel uncertain about: global armed conflict, differing opinions about the pandemic, other illness, potential food shortages, gas prices, a troubled relationship, random acts of violence, interest rates… Not only are there uncertainties, but sensationalism in the media can further contribute to fear and panic. Frank Furedi counted how many times … Continue reading Uncertainty, opportunity, intimacy
Un-drifting from shore
Hello! The Up Devotional is glad to be back after two weeks of vacation. My family spent some time at the ocean. And yes, it was warm enough to swim. We even saw dolphins! One day my daughters and I were jumping in the waves. They would crash into us. We tried to keep our … Continue reading Un-drifting from shore
Ritual or relationship?
“Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!” [Jesus said] His disciples remembered that it is written: “Zeal for your house will consume me” (John 2:16-17). Jesus had zeal. But what is it? Is it emotionalism? Unbridled fervor? Extremism? No, no, and no. Zeal is a deep and abiding passion and concern for the things … Continue reading Ritual or relationship?
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
Speaking about Jesus in the present tense
Maybe it sounds like a strange suggestion, but I think that when we talk about Jesus we should do it more frequently in the present tense. Instead of always saying that “Jesus said” such-and-such, why not say that “Jesus says” such-and-such. For example, Jesus says that we should love our enemies. Jesus says that we … Continue reading Speaking about Jesus in the present tense
When you don’t FEEL close to God
“Pastor, I believe in Jesus and I’m trying to serve God. But I don’t always feel close to him. Is there something wrong with me?” I’ve been asked some version of this question a few different times. Even though the individual is a believer, they wonder if there’s something wrong with them because they don’t … Continue reading When you don’t FEEL close to God
Even though you can’t have everything
A lot of people are experiencing a sense of loss right now. -Many have lost jobs, money or mental calm. -Many have lost experiences or opportunities. -And many have lost a sense of control or composure. Today I’m here to tell you that you can’t always have everything that matters, but you can have everything … Continue reading Even though you can’t have everything
And we shall find God by our side
“Seek God in all things and we shall find God by our side.”* So said Peter Claver. He was a Jesuit from Spain in the early 1600’s who was sent to Cartagena (now in Columbia). While there he devoted himself to caring for thousands upon thousands of people who were being sent from west Africa … Continue reading And we shall find God by our side
The Up Devotional 