Now all glory to God, who is able, through his all mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. – Ephesians 3:20 Every minute of every day, thoughts go in and out of our minds. While driving to work in the morning, we may be thinking about the day ahead. What we need to do when we get to our desks, the meeting that we have at 1pm, what we are going to make for dinner tonight when we get home. Endless thoughts are constantly going around in our minds. If we …
The Joy of Listening
Matthew 5:3-4 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” NIV In my devotions this week, I relate how God returned Joy to my life in various ways: friendship, travel, nature, giving to others, and having a purpose. There are so many ways to experience the rich life God has intended for us and I pray these words of mine will help others who are seeking Joy in their life. I have gained a new perspective on joy this year as I mourn the …
Trials
Reading: Romans 5:2-5 Everyone endures trials and tribulations throughout their lifetime, even Christians. Jesus didn’t promise that if we followed Him, our lives would be easier from that point forward. On the contrary, He warned of the opposite happening. He told us the world would hate us (John 15:18-19). Life can be rough as a Christian, especially when standing for Christ. People don’t typically like to hear they’re doing something wrong, and so, when we bring those sins to the attention of the wrongdoer, defensive walls immediately rise. Christians often suffer persecution because we hold high values and speak out …
He’s In Our Boat
There are so many different types of boats. Fishing boats, speed boats, canoes, cruise liners, the list goes on. Boats are centuries old and has been a mode of transportation since the days of Jesus. He used a boat to get to different locations. We use them today for travel, sport and leisure. Aren’t we all in the same boat these days? The virus that swept the world still lingers. This is one boat that I’m ready to depart. Life can change in a moment. Just a year ago, I was making plans to go on another mission trip, and …
Watch Out For Collateral Damage
I watched a great western yesterday. The Man From Laramie starring Jimmy Stewart. He headed to a town that was “owned” by the biggest rancher in the region. His younger brother had been killed there. Long story short, the son of the land baron was working with the ranch foreman selling guns to the Indians. The son was so angry that everything he did was a catastrophe. The collateral damage of his personal animosity eventually cost him his life and that of his father. Oh beloved, we have a choice. We can let our issues become so angry within us …