“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires” (James 1:19-20). Quick to listen. The KJV translation says “swift to hear.” Either way, the meaning is clear. When we’re NOT quick to listen to God or to the concerns … Continue reading Quick to listen
understanding
Giving Grace
Things are crazy right now. Can I get an Amen? Remember when the pandemic started and everyone was very supportive of one another? Fast forward to today and we’re all wearing thin. We are stretched. We are tired. We are weary. We are impatient. We are bombarded by news reports, conspiracy theories, and decisions which … Continue reading Giving Grace
Default reaction
In Romans 2:1, Paul offers a warning to those who have been passing judgment on others when they themselves are doing the same things: “You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same … Continue reading Default reaction
The Great Disarmer
This week you will meet someone who upsets you. They might upset you a little. Or they might upset you a lot. Maybe they’re in your own family and say something to rub you the wrong way. Or maybe they’re a friend, classmate or co-worker whose actions scratch the invisible chalkboard of your brain. So … Continue reading The Great Disarmer
Be… perfect?
Matthew 5:48 "Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect." (NIV) Today's Thought As strange as it may sound, you can’t be godly and perfect at the same time. To a certain degree, what I just said doesn’t make sense. After all, in Matthew 5:48 Jesus invites his hearers to “Be perfect… as your … Continue reading Be… perfect?
The boy who thought he was a turkey–and the true meaning of Christmas
John 1:9 "The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world." (ESV) Today's Thought Joseph Shulam is a pastor in Jerusalem. He tells a strange-but-powerful story that sears the true meaning of Christmas into your mind. One day after coming home, a young boy took off his clothes and went into the back … Continue reading The boy who thought he was a turkey–and the true meaning of Christmas
The Up Devotional 