The theology of perseverance, when properly understood, translates into concrete actions in the believer’s daily life. First, consistent devotional practice is irreplaceable. If perseverance comes from promises treasured in the heart, regular intake of God’s Word through reading, study, and meditation is vital.   Perseverance is not an option but a calling for every Christian.... Continue Reading

When people truly serve a unique God, they become unique people themselves. David moves from declaring God’s uniqueness to asking “what one nation in the earth is like thy people?” A workforce example illustrates this principle: when a boss needs something accomplished, he points out the employee who stands apart because of reliability, hard work,... Continue Reading

Jesus promises that in the Father’s house there are many rooms—a place for each of us to dwell. But we soon learn as well that in the Father’s school there are many classrooms—many different contexts in which we come to know him better, rely on him more deeply, and become more closely conformed to his... Continue Reading

While it may go against the norms of modern culture, which often views friendship as a personal decision, parents should be encouraged to take an active role in helping their children form wise, healthy friendships, especially when they are young.   As a pastor, I’ve had many families come to me about conflicts or challenges... Continue Reading

People don’t just change their minds in an instant. When you see something that can’t be true, you don’t just say, “Well I guess everything I know is wrong.” No, you cling to what you understand, and you don’t believe “your lying eyes.” This is especially true when you’re depressed. Good news just bounces off... Continue Reading

Just imagine if God operated like in this customer service experience. Asking for extra payment and then not fulfilling what he promised to do. When we raise it with him, he tells us to do something and then fails to fulfil that when we do it. When we seek redress, he kicks the can down... Continue Reading

Our culture is one of relentless production. Many of the churches in our culture are fueled by the quest for more. The end result of such a culture is that the church is infected with a restlessness. Another outreach event, another music production and another special service or service project takes the driver’s seat while... Continue Reading

It is very important for us to realize that we have been given the authority of Christ to proclaim liberty to the captives. The power rests with God in the person of the Holy Spirit. He is God’s Enforcer of the words we speak. It is not up to us to make our words come... Continue Reading

Churches need to include teaching and modeling about being human.   A class was offered recently at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in South Carolina. Annually, this seminary offers an intensive course for pastors and students. This year’s course was in Contemporary Challenges in Pastoral Ministry Among the topics were lectures on preaching, worship leadership, pastoral... Continue Reading

In ancient Israel, a fool would mock the guilt offering, while the upright would delight in the acceptance that it established between them and both God and their neighbor. The principle is the same for us today. How do we respond to the message of the cross? Is it folly to us, or is it... Continue Reading