Author Archives: cchrisholland

About cchrisholland

...husband, dad, pastor, teacher, and chronic day-dreamer

How do you view the Cross?

Recently there was a fictional movie about an assassination. In the film, the story kept starting over from the beginning. Each time it was from a different person’s perspective…interesting thought. Oddly enough, we see the same thing with the crucifixion … Continue reading

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The Thought Train

Have you ever said, “Wow, what was I thinking?” You know the routine. You’re in the middle of a personal rock slide or organizational crash and wonder, “How’d I get here?” Well, since transporters only exist in science fiction, we … Continue reading

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When Jesus asks, “What do you wish?”

Describing my heart’s desire has changed over the years. As a kid it revolved around my dirt bike, baseball, or adventure. As a young adult, it shifted to marriage, family and career. Studying Matthew 20 recently prompted a fresh look … Continue reading

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Divorcing “Gay” from “Marriage”

Kirk Cameron is drawing fierce criticism for his statements concerning “Gay Marriage” during a Piers Morgan interview on CNN. He said, “Marriage was defined by God a long time ago…and it was defined in the garden between Adam and Eve.” … Continue reading

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The Christian SWOT Diagram

The original S-W-O-T analysis has been used for years by organizations to identify Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. Credited to Albert Humphrey, it’s a great tool for assessment and planning. As followers of Christ, we can personally benefit too from identifying … Continue reading

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Jesus According to Polls

Asking the question, “Who is Jesus?” on the street in most cities would rarely produce a clear consensus. No other name in history equals His influence, but there are still various opinions of Christ. It’s interesting how little that’s changed … Continue reading

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Shaking up Tradition

It’s hard to beat Ray Stevens’ “The Mississippi Squirrel Revival” when it comes to mocking sanctimonious hypocrisy. The imagery of a traditional setting invites all kinds of opinions. You can view the video here: http://youtu.be/K16fG1sDagU Unfortunately, the conversation of how … Continue reading

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Spiritual Road Rash

I have a scar on my right knee. As a matter of fact, I have several life-long souvenirs from up close encounters with the pavement via bikes, skateboards, etc. Spiritually speaking I also have similar reminders, but thankfully, following those over-the-handle-bars … Continue reading

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10 Great Bible Study Questions

When studying a Bible passage, consider starting with these great questions I recently heard: What stands out about it? Is there anything you don’t like about it (makes you uncomfortable)? Is there anything about it you don’t understand? Is there a sin … Continue reading

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Is it a Test or Temptation?

Often, a dilemma contains both; a test and a temptation. The trick of course is to identify one from the other. Let’s explore it by looking at a familiar story:  5Then Jesus lifted up His eyes, and seeing a great multitude … Continue reading

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Beyond Stained Glass

I confess. During worship services as a kid, there were moments of day-dreaming (all spiritual of course). In my mind, there were endless amounts of exciting things happening on the other side of those stained glass windows. Right past the … Continue reading

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Calling Fire from Heaven

Admit it. In the face of contemporary moral decline and agenda driven news, this thought has crossed your mind: “A little fire from heaven about now would make believers out of these people!” Well, you probably haven’t, but I admit … Continue reading

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Does God Care?

Relationships, health, career, parenting…life can be FULL of fears. When we least expect it, confidence can get mushy as the clouds gather. So it was with the disciples in Mark 4. Remember the story… 35On the same day, when evening … Continue reading

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Who’s the Real Deal?

Years ago, there was a Christian comedian with a very dramatic testimony of being delivered from Satanism. He was funny, told incredible stories, and I was a fan. Unfortunately, one day the truth came out how he’d fabricated most of … Continue reading

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Ever Felt Judged?

Most of us have, and of course it’s not exactly a warm-fuzzy feeling. Worse yet, most of us have also been the one to judge others at some point. In Matthew 7, Jesus discusses judging. He directs us to the … Continue reading

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“What do you seek?”

We all have questions. Even Jesus asked questions. As a matter of fact, He asked a lot of questions which are recorded in the gospels. The difference is purpose. He didn’t lack information, He was teaching. As the Master Teacher, … Continue reading

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“It’s not my fault!”

How often do you hear that? With kids…daily, but as adults we still catch ourselves saying it. Does the Bible address personal responsibility? The simple answer…yes. Consider a passage I call the “unbreakable law” from Galatians… “Do not be deceived, … Continue reading

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Character is a Choice

“Talent is a gift, but character is a choice.” – John Maxwell Have you ever known someone rich in talent, but poor in character? Most of us have, and it’s usually a tragic picture of self-deception. Good character isn’t defined … Continue reading

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Truth & Love: The Bookends

At the grocery store, I have a bad habit of getting a basket, when I need a buggy. Soon, stuff is hanging out of the basket and I’m trying to carry the rest in my arms…I guess it’s a guy … Continue reading

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The Everyday Life

Over the years, the words of Oswald Chambers have greatly impacted me. For some reason, I feel compelled to share a quote I read this morning and a thought: “We have a tendency to look for wonder in our experience, … Continue reading

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