We sometimes have our hearts set on the wrong thing, and God lovingly brings people into our lives to help us stay the course. We are all prone to an incredible amount of selfishness and self-centeredness. The reason why we call it “blind spots” is because they’re blind. We literally cannot see them. We need... Continue Reading

Many pastors are feeling internal or external pressure to set those special measures aside, to once again start up all the programs and ministries, and to return to normalcy as quickly as possible. This is greatly complicated by the fact that in many congregations half the church considers this a public health emergency in which... Continue Reading

We often think of Old Testament worship as full of requirements, laws, and sacrifices so that there must have been no joy in coming to worship. But here the psalmist is rebuking the idea that the worship of God was some sort of chore, or some hard demand God put upon his people. That is... Continue Reading

Do seasoned saints need gospel-centered preaching? Haven’t they progressed way past the basic truths of Jesus’ death and resurrection? Isn’t proclaiming Christ crucified week after week to them like telling a gourmet chef how to fry an egg, or reminding an ER doctor how to check vital signs? Aren’t we supposed to “leave behind the... Continue Reading

Owing to the politicization of virus restrictions, the decision to reopen a church for public worship has also become political. Left-leaning churches are more likely to stay closed because the political Left favors greater coronavirus restrictions than the Right. Right-leaning churches are more likely to reopen, a phenomenon shown in that the churches covered by the media... Continue Reading

Most people find that starting a spiritual conversation is a bit awkward. Using a well-placed question, though, is a safe way for more timid types—and aggressive types, too—to get off the bench and into active conversation. It helps you ease into the game, so to speak, in a genial, non-threatening way, especially when your question... Continue Reading

The appellate court ruling temporarily halts indoor services and set a Sept. 4 hearing for complete arguments from both sides in the case. In issuing the temporary stay, the court said the case involved “difficult questions of law” that could not be resolved in time for Sunday’s church services, so the justices opted to leave... Continue Reading

The world’s hate for Christ is the source of their persecuting fervor and that hate can be hidden behind a smile as you are graciously ushered toward the door at the end of the evening.  However, once the door closes behind you, the smile of your once congenial host falls to the floor and it... Continue Reading

No one can speak for the biblical Timothy. However, in these letters, I will be taking on the mantle of Timothy writing to my “Paul.” God has blessed me with many Pauls. He has given me several pastors, mentors, and professors. These men were and continue to be God’s gift to me. The label of... Continue Reading

Loving God and our neighbor begins with those under our roof (Deut. 28:1–6; Matt. 22:36–40; Acts 16:31). So do the next small thing at home. Fix supper, wash dishes, bathe kids, rest and relax with those you love. We often talk about discipling our kids and what devotional we use or questions we ask (and we... Continue Reading