This week I’m sharing some thoughts about humility. On Monday I talked about the pitfalls of pride. On Tuesday I talked about Jesus’ own example. On Wednesday I talked about some practical ways to “Do nothing out of selfish ambition” (Philippians 2:3). Today let me keep that going. Here are a few more down-to-earth ideas … Continue reading Applause vs Faithfulness
servanthood
Fear not, do
Someone recently brought something to my attention. When you reverse the words “Do not fear” you get “Fear not, do.” Here’s why I like it. Some people get paralyzed with fear. They sense (or create) something to be afraid of in their minds—something invisible and possibly destructive—and, as a result, cease living their lives. What … Continue reading Fear not, do
God the errand boy?
Some people think that God exists for them, and not the other way around. In effect, their brain says, “I refuse to acknowledge and serve God, but I insist that he acknowledge and serve me.” I remember talking to someone who didn’t believe in God, learn about God, or follow God. But when something bad … Continue reading God the errand boy?
Liberated to serve
Forgiveness. It’s a big deal. But have you ever thought about WHY God offers forgiveness? Yes, it’s because of his incredible and unceasing love for you, and because of his desire for you to have peace and joy with him in the great ever-after. But there is also an implication for THIS life. Psalm 130:4 … Continue reading Liberated to serve
Doing something “beneath” you
There are two kinds of pride. The first is simply being proud of your country or a child. I get that. It’s pretty innocent. But the second kind of pride is problematic and has to do with ego. It’s an over-inflated sense of self. It’s having a puffed-up attitude, never admitting you’re wrong, and thinking … Continue reading Doing something “beneath” you
For the praise of God, or the praise of others?
Would you rather praise God or be praised by others? Let’s be honest. Getting a pat on the back feels good. I’m not knocking that. But we shouldn’t be so obsessed by the praise and approval of others that it eclipses the priority of putting God first. So here’s something you and I can do … Continue reading For the praise of God, or the praise of others?
What is the purpose of life?
A question most people ask at some point in their lives is this: What is the purpose of life? I’m not sure if you’ve noticed, but our society seems to have an answer: 'The purpose of life is to be healthy and happy.' That’s certainly what the TV shows, talking heads, radio programs, advertisers, and … Continue reading What is the purpose of life?
Chronic busyness
I’ve been talking a lot about love this week. It’s partly because… -I recently spoke about love at the church I pastor -a school shooting in Florida reminds us how desperately love continues to be needed -and Jesus commands us to do it. So as we try to love—that is, as we try to acknowledge that … Continue reading Chronic busyness
Love is…
Everyone loves the idea of love. I'm not necessarily talking about romantic love (although what I'm about to say applies to that too), but love in general. Who's ever heard of someone saying they don’t like love, or that love is bad? Since it’s so widely venerated and used, it’s a word that can easily … Continue reading Love is…
If not you, who?
The thing that happens when people gather on Sunday is called a “worship service.” It’s often at a building, but not always. Recently on vacation (in a very warm climate!) we gathered in a circle on the beach. Psalm 66:2 says, “sing the glory of his name; give to him glorious praise!” That’s what we did … Continue reading If not you, who?
