The most popular verse in Psalm 46 is verse 10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” In our world of frantic frenzy, scurrying, stress and busyness, the idea of “being still” really appeals to us. We might not always do it very well, but we sure like it! It makes us think of … Continue reading Inner stillness
trusting God
God is working (so take the pressure off)
In John 5 Jesus healed a man who had been sick for thirty-eight years. But since he did so on the day of rest, he was criticized for it. Talk about missing for the forest for the trees! In his own defense Jesus said: “My Father is always at his work to this very day, … Continue reading God is working (so take the pressure off)
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
Even if we can’t see it immediately
Hebrews 6:13-15 tells us about a promise God made to Abraham: “I will surely bless you and give you many descendants.” Originally he had to wait 25 years before his son Isaac was born. After Isaac was in his care, he was told to sacrifice him as a burnt offering. As a parent, I can’t … Continue reading Even if we can’t see it immediately
Because you say so
“When [Jesus] had finished speaking, he said to Simon, ‘Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.’ Simon answered, ‘Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets’” (Luke 5:4-5). I find great inspiration and comfort from Peter, … Continue reading Because you say so
Just to be is a blessing
We’re used to earning things. If we study hard we earn good grades.If we have a job we earn money.If we keep our word we earn respect. Since this mentality-of-earning is so deeply engrained in our brains we can also start to think that we can only experience God’s blessings if we earn them. And … Continue reading Just to be is a blessing
2021: In the arms of an certain God
Welcome to 2021! After a week off, the “Up!” daily devotional is back. And welcome to those who have newly subscribed over the past week. In 2008 there was a College softball game. Sara Tucholsky came to the plate. She only had three hits all season. But she smashed the ball out the park. It … Continue reading 2021: In the arms of an certain God
The grip of his righteous right hand
In the 1996 Olympics Derek Redmond was in the 400-metre race. During his heat he was out in front. But then his Achilles tendon snapped! He fell to the track. The crowd gasped. He got up, slowly. Limping. He was trying to move forward while dragging his leg behind him. The crowd started to cheer … Continue reading The grip of his righteous right hand
Soul cleats
In James 5:8 we read: “You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.” Let’s zero-in on the phrase “stand firm.” The oldest manuscripts we have of this passage are in Greek. “Stand firm” is an imperative verb. In other words, it’s a command that James expects to be followed. But … Continue reading Soul cleats
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
The Up Devotional 