Finding True Joy

The Thessalonians found true joy in serving Christ despite hardships and trials. They did not do things grudgingly or because of guilt. People knew their faith was real, that they held eternal truths, not words based on idle human wisdom.

Defending Our Life With Our Mouth

Even though evil doers approach and ask to enter, our door remains closed. Our lips do not welcome them. With the Lord’s wisdom we can defend our life with what we say.

#ThanksgivingThursday: People Who Give You Joy

When I read 1 Thessalonians 3:7-9 I think of these people in my life. Some are still dear friends and others have moved on to other places and ministries to mentor others in the faith. At times we have encouraged one another as we faced struggles in life.

Calling Jesus to Follow Us

We often think of Jesus calling people to follow him, but do we think about people calling Jesus to follow them? Like Levi, we should invite Jesus to follow us into our lives and the people we know.

Seeking the Desires of Your Heart

Stop and think for a moment. If someone with the ability to give you anything you wanted asked you what you wanted what would you say? Pose that question to anyone on the street and how many would say they want wisdom and knowledge?

Seeking to Build a Dwelling Place for God

I want them to experience the joy of the Lord; to experience the peace that comes from the Spirit of God dwelling within. Yet like David, sometimes God tells me “no,” that someone else will build it and I will not see it in my lifetime.

Being Satisfied With God’s Provision

Jesus proceeded to show the apostles that God will provide all you need. In verse 16 he took the loaves and fishes and “gave thanks and broke them.” Then he had the disciples distribute them to the thousands in the crowd.

Does God Hear Our Prayers?

I have found myself reciting a similar prayer when devoted followers of Christ I know have died; when friends contract terminal cancer. “Lord, these are people who have followed you; righteous people dedicated to serving you. Why?”

Determining Your Citizenship

My passport and driver’s license show my citizenship. But how do people know we are citizens of the Kingdom of God? In Phillipians 3:20 Paul wrote, “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ (NIV).”

Please Take Away This Pain

God has created us for a specific purpose. He has uniquely crafted us, chosen us to do his will. Our obedience, as difficult as it is at times, is essential to carrying out God’s plan — to help others find the path to salvation through Christ Jesus.