When the big idea of a book is located, it helps you connect the biblical passages in the book to one another because you can see how they are all relating to—or expanding on—the overall theme of the book. Passages in a biblical book change from being random stories, arguments, or poems to being important... Continue Reading

Take heart. The trials that test us today will one day become the trophies of grace that adorn us in glory. Our King goes before us, His Spirit strengthens us within, and His angels surround us on every side. The arrows may fly, but our shield is stronger. The wounds may sting, but our Healer... Continue Reading

We can look for ways God is transforming our valleys of trouble into places of unexpected goodness, especially in giving us deeper intimacy with Him. The greater blessing in trial is deeper fellowship with Jesus, knowing His peace that surpasses understanding and His love that surpasses knowledge.   Few chapters in Scripture have impacted me... Continue Reading

It is humbling that the slightest inconveniences deter many of us from following God. Most often, we live for our comfort, reputation, or gain. When any of those goals are touched, we are troubled and discontent. We must settle the issue of why we live. In so doing, we will enter the foyer of heaven and... Continue Reading

With the rise of modern technology, and the Bible’s ready availability on phones or tablets, the physical presence of a Bible book is becoming more and more rare. Yes, Christians still care about the content of the Bible, but seem less concerned with the physical presence of the Bible. But it was not so in the early... Continue Reading

Jesus came to help us with the problem of suffering. And, in the end, to help us out of suffering forever. That doesn’t mean that suffering doesn’t hurt here and now. But it does mean there is a confidence that God can work through suffering to create something beautiful and good.   This is one... Continue Reading

We are called to carry the light that brings deliverance and life in Christ to those trapped in darkness and the shadow of spiritual death. If we are faithful to our calling, some in the drug-infested neighborhoods will be rescued, others will overcome the trauma of child abuse, unborn babies will be rescued before an... Continue Reading

Our salvation depends on Christ assuming what we are, including our corporality. But if our corporality is included, then so too is our existence where we started in utero—as zygotes, creatures distinct from their parents, though not yet equipped with the full suite of anatomic and physiologic functions that come with physical maturity. Christ needed to assume a human nature, and thus,... Continue Reading

It is hard to avoid the sneaking suspicion that my interests are deemed acceptable and good whilst yours, for somewhat opaque reasons, are deemed less worthy and excellent. It is often delivered in pseudo-Christain terms but not actually rooted in anything specifically Christian at all. Just a superior sense that my hobbies are better and... Continue Reading

The most important thing for leaders of God’s people is that they know God.  Not that they’re gifted, or charismatic, or have a dusting of celebrity stardust.  But they know God.    As Elkanah and his family head home(11), they leave young Samuel behind where he ministers before the Lord under Eli.  But it’s not long until... Continue Reading