Pride, like any character trait, can be beneficial or detrimental. Merriam-Webster’s definitions illustrate both aspects. On one hand, pride is a “sense of one’s own worth.” On the other, it’s “inordinate self-esteem, an unreasonable conceit, insolence or arrogance of demeanor.” Why would God instill such a trait in us? Because “a sense of one’s own … Read more
Megan called me one afternoon to talk about a female coworker transitioning to become a man. “She’s my friend,” Megan said, “She wants me to use her preferred male name and pronouns, but I care about her health and emotional well-being. How can I demonstrate my love, respect, and concern for her without compromising my … Read more
Storms are scary. When the waves crash and torrential rain pelts us, escaping or hiding from the storm may seem the best way to handle our circumstances. But just as the disciples endured the hurricane-force storm on the Sea of Galilee for a while, we may also have to wait for Jesus to calm the … Read more
God’s people were about to enter a culture steeped in idolatry. Moses stood before the two million plus crowd and said, “Take to heart all the words I have solemnly declared to you this day, so that you may command your children to obey carefully all the words of this law. They are not just … Read more
Early one morning Grace awoke suddenly, her heart racing and her palms sweaty. Fear welled up inside her. After a few deep breaths, she said, “I know You’re with me, God. Help.” Her breathing steadied and her heartbeat slowed. The fear disappeared. God was with Grace that morning. He’s with her every morning. He’s with … Read more
Have you ever been so weary that you said, “I cannot take another step”? Have you awakened in the morning and refused to open your eyes because you still felt exhausted? Pain can do that. It can weaken us to the point that we’re immobile. It can fill our heart with so much darkness that … Read more
For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. James 3:16 When God delivered the tenth commandment on Mount Sinai, he added a sweeping conclusion to the simple beginning: “You shall not covet … anything that belongs to your neighbor” Exodus 20:17). Why add anything? Maybe God wanted to … Read more
We all have a worldview—a set of conscious and subconscious beliefs through which we see and interpret life. Worldview determines how we view God, ourselves, truth, and reality. It colors our understanding of history and shapes our values. When we accept Christ as Savior and Lord, the Holy Spirit begins to transform our worldview—removing beliefs … Read more
If you follow national news at all, you’ve probably heard about the “No Kings” protests. The participants are voicing their disapproval of the way the president is running the country. But when I see signs that read “No Kings,” I think of another issue—a much deeper, spiritual problem. We humans don’t really want any kind … Read more
The Thanksgiving season beckons us into a spirit of praise, worship, and thanksgiving. God yearns for His people to cultivate these habits, but often we’re so focused on our hurt and difficult circumstances that we don’t use these soul-healing tools. You may be thinking, She must be kidding. What is there to be thankful for … Read more