“The Lord Jesus Himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Acts 20:35 NIV “God established a spiritual life-principle: you receive when, and as, you give.” My thoughts today are about “liberality.” The last sermon that I ever heard my Dad preach was about Solomon’s request for […]
“Teach us to realize the brevity of life.” Psalm 90:12 NLT “Life is precious; a lifetime is limited.” My thoughts today are about “an expiration date.” Days ago, a long-time friend died. These last days, my life feels poorer without him near, yet still richer because he included me as […]
“There is a time . . to laugh.” Ecclesiastes 1:4 NIV “People don’t laugh enough, and they are the worse for that lack.” My thoughts today are, “laugh; it’s good for you!” I was watching Pastor Joel Osteen’s TV program yesterday morning as I dressed for church. It amuses me […]
“Everyone who competes . . goes into strict training.” 1 Corinthians 9:25 NIV “Self-discipline is absolutely essential for success, whatever your arena of endeavor.” My thoughts today are about “spiritual discipline.” In today’s verse, the Apostle Paul uses athletic competition as a metaphor for the Christian life, which he often […]
“Don’t try to disclaim responsibility by saying you didn’t know.” Proverbs 24.12 TLB “Blame is a lame attempt to avoid facing your own truth.” My thoughts today are about “blame.” What kid has not deflected blame by saying, “It’s not my fault; it’s theirs!” Blaming someone else never does much […]