Tag Archives: Christian

Considering Shamgar

Thought about Shamgar lately? Probably not. He was one of the Judges of Israel like Samson and Gideon. However, he rarely makes the cut for children’s Sunday School lessons because the entire biblical narrative of his life consist of only … Continue reading

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Wisdom 14.12

“There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.” – Proverbs 14:12 NIV At the end of it all, our opinions about “what’s right” will be irrelevant. Polling data, legal rulings, … Continue reading

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Not Forsaken

There are points on the journey when the “weather” of life can go from clear and sunny to dark and stormy. Those are the exact times when the words of Psalm 9 are most applicable. Somehow, making the decision to speak … Continue reading

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Advent – Week 3 – “Joy”

During the private moments of the Last Supper, Jesus spoke many powerful words to His disciples (John ch.13-17). He challenged them, instructed them, encouraged them, and prayed for them. He also prayed for us (those who would believe by their … Continue reading

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Spirit Led

Have you ever experienced the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit? A presence more real and lasting than manufactured excitement? In our world, there are a lot of voices speaking all manner of spiritual talk, but there is only one … Continue reading

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Truth and Opinion

Opinions are cheap and endless. They’re printed, posted, tweeted, spoken, and advertised; but at the end of it all, these words will still be true: “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands … Continue reading

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Lines in the Sand

When a culture trades truth for compromise, the concept of drawing a moral “line in the sand” is considered extreme. However, in a similar environment, Joshua (leader of the Hebrews after Moses) made a bold statement doing exactly that. Take … Continue reading

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Wisdom 13.20

“He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm.” – Proverbs 13:20 NIV Over time, peers can influence our values, hopes, and dreams. The ideas and suggestions most often discussed around us will eventually … Continue reading

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There is No Other

In the lead up to Christmas, it’s good to pause and linger on some of words that were part of the prophetic proclamations of Isaiah. Along with the Messianic promises, God paints a vivid image of His character through the … Continue reading

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Advent – Week 2 – “Love”

The word “love” in the Bible carries many meanings, but when associated with God’s love for us, it’s always pure, selfless, and enduring. In I John, there are many verses explaining how God loves us, how we’re to love Him, … Continue reading

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Anchor Points of Encouragement

Our souls long to know there’s more to life than what we see. In the daily routine, there can be ups, downs, boredom and excitement. Relationships can bring encouragement, but also discouragement and the first century Christians knew the taste … Continue reading

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Lyrics of the Soul

There’s something about music that “strikes a chord” within us. Some people are more naturally “musical”, but all of us have the capacity to “sing” within our souls. It may be the verses of an old hymn from childhood, a … Continue reading

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Recognized and Commended

Medals, ribbons, and certificates are methods of being recognized for service, devotion and “going beyond the call of duty”. In the Christian life, there is also recognition, but it’s not to be based on peer acknowledgment, but on Christ’s approval. … Continue reading

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Wisdom 13.10

“By pride comes nothing but strife, but with the well-advised is wisdom.” – Proverbs 13:10 NKJV Prudent decisions rarely come from knee-jerk reactions. Shallow-minded peer-pressure is always plentiful, but counsel that lines up with biblical principles is the one to … Continue reading

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Advent – Week 1 – Hope

The familiar people we read about this time of year (Mary, Joseph, Zacharias, Elizabeth, Simeon, and Anna) were considered faithful before miraculous events unfolded. In other words, they were found righteous in a setting where Gentiles ruled Israel, a tyrant … Continue reading

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A Genuine “I’m Sorry.”

The words “I’m sorry” can be liberating or limiting, depending on sincerity. Genuine sorrow can lead to forgiveness, whereas the attitude of “I’m sorry (that I got caught)” produces nothing good. The Bible explains it this way:  “For godly sorrow … Continue reading

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A Perfect Work in Progress

Good days and bad days are all part of the Christian life; and even though it may not feel like it, if you’re in Christ, you’re perfect. As a matter of fact, the Bible explains it this way: “For He … Continue reading

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Wisdom 12.25

“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down, but a good word cheers it up.” – Proverbs 12:25 HCSB An encouraging comment from a friend or a random compliment from a stranger can positively change someone’s day; and that friend … Continue reading

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The Elements of Trust

“Confidence” and “expectation” are elements of “trust”. When it comes to people, to place trust in someone is to have confidence or expectations regarding their character. The interesting question is, “What produces the confidence or expectation?” Does it come from … Continue reading

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Day-by-Day Renewal

How does renewal come from the Lord? Is it something received at a Sunday worship service or Bible study? It can be. However, even though gatherings can have a powerful impact, the biblical picture of God’s sustaining often looks more … Continue reading

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