Those who want signs and wonders—like the Jews of old—will most likely reap the most benefit from Matthew. Those who long to know compassion and healing will most certainly be drawn to Luke. Those who want quick cameos that capture the essence of true religion—those who move hastily from one thing to the next—will benefit... Continue Reading

The enemy will do everything he can to keep me distracting myself to death, but the Holy Spirit reminds me of what is waiting for me at home next to my bed if only I would pick it up. Who will win in this scenario? With a sigh of relief, I am reminded of one other passage found in... Continue Reading

The sinner’s need for the gospel doesn’t end when he is converted. While the fullness of eternal life is bestowed upon the vilest sinner at that point, he still needs the good news to grow him, mature him, sanctify him.    I have a friend who argues that there should not be an element in... Continue Reading

Christian, we should not speak as others speak. We should speak as those who have been called by grace through faith, not of our own doing, but as a gift of God. Lest we become boastful. Lest we become expert at navigating the logs in our eyes, to tenaciously expose the troublesome specks that can... Continue Reading

Numbering our days enables us to commit to those tasks that are long term and may not produce immediate fruit. Numbering our days frees us to take appropriate self-care, and to take care of our bodies, minds and spirits. It demands that we take adequate rest in order to be able to endure in service. ... Continue Reading

As Jesus taught, forgiveness is “from your heart” (Matthew 18:35). Compulsory forgiveness is cold and false. Forgiveness might need some prodding from time to time, but, in the end, it should be voluntary and free.   During Paul’s imprisonment in Rome (Philemon 1; cf. Acts 28:30–31), a household slave named Onesimus stole from his master Philemon... Continue Reading

When God’s grace is at work in your life, it’s not just “God’s favor,” as we often think. It is also his active power, explosive like dynamite. This power sustains us in every trial and equips us to enrich the lives of others as we employ our spiritual gifts. It brings joy in the face... Continue Reading

It’s easy to overlook ordinary, everyday displays of God’s glory.    There are certain prayers in Scripture that so perfectly capture the cry of one’s heart that they are worth repeating. I often pray “I believe, help my unbelief” because it perfectly communicates both my faith and lack thereof. One such prayer that has been... Continue Reading

The fear and trembling of the women at the tomb is par for the course. It is the ordinary reaction of those who encounter Jesus and see that he is not just a man, but that he possesses divine power and glory.    The ending of the gospel of Mark can be surprising – a... Continue Reading

Whatever ministry we may be involved in, whatever position we may hold, we are disciples of Jesus.  And he knows that we are sinful and broken people.  He knows that when he calls us.  He has a far greater work for us to do.  And he knows that he will need to do great work... Continue Reading