Tending to Denials

I can relate to Peter’s denial of Jesus not once, but three times (Luke 22:54-62). I’ve had plenty of missed opportunities in my life—lost chances to go deeper with someone about my faith when they press me with questions. Fear kicks in and I become more concerned about myself and my ego than how I […]

Arising After Denial

You’re in a group of Christians sharing a meal and someone mentions how committed they are to Jesus. You chime in and say that you too are fully committed to Jesus. The rest of the group adds that they too are committed followers. However, soon those words are tested. In Matthew 26:26-35, Jesus has finished […]

Everyday—Mirror Reflection

“Everyday” is a series of Thursday posts this month looking at God’s presence in everyday life. The thought was persistent. Write “God Loves You” on the steamed up mirror in the hotel bathroom. I hesitated. Wouldn’t the person cleaning the room clean the mirror, thus removing my message? Then it occurred to me that I […]

Everyday—Reflective Reminder

“Everyday” is a series of Thursday posts this month looking at God’s presence in everyday life. Almost a year ago, a loved one suffered a head injury. While there continues to be progress, recovery has been slow. Vision problems, headaches and fatigue still persist. Too much stimulus can be painful for her. While she can […]

Prayer Journey—Honor

You are righteous dear God. Your wisdom is life. It is difficult for me to grasp the vastness of your presence, the depth of your holiness, the purity of your light. Nothing on this earth compares to you, yet your work, the beauty of your creation is evident in this world. Your mighty hand is […]

Talking to God

Some of the deepest conversations I have had with a friend have been one to one in private—sitting together over a cup of coffee or a meal. Sometimes I think of those moments when praying—sitting in private with God and discussing life and it’s challenges. It is that one-to-one dialogue that I envision when I […]

Surrounded by an Army of Trials

Have you ever felt surrounded by trials in life? It seems there is no way out. You feel overwhelmed. It’s as if a powerful army has showed up at your door seeking to conquer your life. It’s an overwhelming feeling and it seems there is no way out. This is how King Hezekiah felt when […]

Worried in a City of Fear

Son, why have You treated us this way? Behold, Your father and I have been anxiously looking for You.” And He said to them, “Why is it that you were looking for Me? Did you not know that I had to be in My Father’s house?” – Luke 2:47 (NASB) It had been years since […]

Avoiding Cracks in Unity

A few years ago I had an instructor who warned the class, “The minute someone or a group of people start differentiating themselves from others, watch out.” He cautioned us that it is usually the start of a person or group trying to elevate themselves above others. He pointed out that it is particularly worrisome […]

Avoiding Trip Hazards

Those who love Your law have great peace, And nothing causes them to stumble. – Psalm 119:165 (NASB) There is something about this verse that is very compelling. It expresses contentment and confidence. To love God’s law, to desire to follow Him and His way is to know His peace. God’s law is designed to […]