It’s a question pondered by many. Even Christians. Put another way: “If God is so good and great, then why am I not happy and my life seems off-kilter?” ◊ Christians are supposed to be happy and joyful, right? And full… Read More ›
Devotion
One Year Ago
Going to memorial services for two friends this month gives one pause. One year ago, this week, my family faced our own crisis. It was a startling opportunity to practice what I preach. ◊ First of all, I am not a… Read More ›
The Dedication in NEHEMIAH 12
Even with our sincere and honest confession of sin to God, we will often drift back into old patterns and ways. How does God deal with this? ◊ At some point in our lives, we all have what many refer to… Read More ›
On Death and Dying
Two friends died this week. With death and dying comes perspective and holy homage to God for the breath of life. ◊ It seems that death is more palpable in recent years. Of course we’ve all had people we know… Read More ›
The Reopening in NEHEMIAH 11
The walls have been rebuilt and the people are now settling in a coordinated plan. What can we derive by reading apparently non-essential details? Only historic, instructive, and spiritual context. ◊ The Bible can be read as a sequential book,… Read More ›
The Recommitment in NEHEMIAH 10
After understanding God’s standards, people’s heart and soul get convicted. But then what? They rededicate and recalibrate their focus. Do these 3 areas of life focus resonate with you? ◊ Once convicted of the waywardness of your past or present ways,… Read More ›
The Reminding in NEHEMIAH 9
Have you strayed from God over time? Have you forgotten something God did in your life? Have you ever expressed that remorse or sorrow to God? Sometimes we need to be reminded. ◊ Have you ever been reminded of some actions… Read More ›
The Reading in NEHEMIAH 8
Reading the Law books in the Old Testament can be either very boring or very convicting. When Nehemiah had Ezra read the Scriptures aloud to the Jewish people, their reaction was dramatic. What’s in this for us? ◊ Have you ever… Read More ›
Christian All Stars
Given Major League Baseball’s All Star game was played this week in beautiful Dodger Stadium, I’m reminded of a game several years ago and an event featuring Christian ballplayer testimonies. ◊ (from Biblical Viewpoint, 07/04/15, Christian Ballplayers) When professional ballplayers share… Read More ›
The People in NEHEMIAH 7
God is not mocked or thwarted. His plans and purposes are big. Only in retrospect and study of the Bible can we begin to understand His actions and impact on people, kings, and nations. ◊ The Bible is full of names… Read More ›
The Muslim, Jewish, Catholic Family
This very week I was reminded of an encounter 7 years ago while at the same restaurant in southern California. Fleeting are the moments and opportunities we all have to share our faith and lives. ◊ Seven years ago while… Read More ›
Truth on the 4th of July?
Beyond barbeques and fireworks, we will be faced again this 4th of July weekend with stories of America’s past and origins. Is it true? What is truth? Here are 5 keys to effectively discern truth, on anything. ◊ So what is… Read More ›