Follow the Money

Money. It’s what motivated them to have Paul and Silas brought before the authorities and imprisoned. It started me thinking about what motivates people to do the things they do. In Acts 16:16-24 Paul is on his way to prayer with the others when a fortune teller follows them and keeps proclaiming, “These men are […]

Answer My Request, Now!

When faced with difficult circumstances with no end in sight, relief from the pain is top of mind. During those times I have felt like the Psalmist in my prayers to God, “Do not hide Your face from me in the day of my distress; Incline Your ear to me; In the day when I […]

Prayer Journal–Many Waters

Lord, you are mightier than the “many waters, the breakers of the sea.” I have seen the power of a fierce wind blowing across the sea and experienced its power, waves crashing against feeble, earthly things. I have felt the might gales press against me. Yet you Lord, your hand, is mightier than any force […]

Sunday Praise

Praise the LORD!Sing to the LORD a new song,And His praise in the congregation of the godly ones. Let Israel be glad in his Maker;Let the sons of Zion rejoice in their King.Let them praise His name with dancing;Let them sing praises to Him with timbrel and lyre. – Psalm 149:1-3, NASB

The Power of the Spirit

Instead of hearing what Stephen had to say, men from the “Synagogue of the Freedmen”chose to argue with him (Acts 6:9, NASB). They were more intent on defending their beliefs and way than learning about the new thing God was doing. “But they were unable to cope with the wisdom and the Spirit with which […]

Faced With A Choice

This man steps in front of me. I immediately recognize Him. He’s the one so many have been talking about around town. He’s controversial, saying things that upset others. Some say he’s a radical and they avoid him. “What do you think?” They ask me. I just shrug my shoulders and move on. I never […]

Prayer Journal–My Rock

You are my rock dear Lord. I trust in your plans. Nothing happens without your hand permitting it. You have the long view. You know what was, what is, and what is to come. Help me to trust you and rely on your wisdom. Fill me with your Spirit and the joy of your presence […]

Sunday Praise

Praise the LORD!Praise the LORD, O my soul!I will praise the LORD while I live;I will sing praises to my God while I have my being. – Psalm 146:1-2, NASB

Bringing Jesus into the Boat

It’s humbling when God shows up and proves our doubts were wrong. It’s embarrassing when we realize we put all that effort into something without inviting Jesus into the boat. Yet Jesus patiently invites himself into our boat, teaching us his ways.