When Bitterness Consumes Joy

It’s easy to point a finger at Haman and say he should thank the Lord for all his blessings, but it’s also a warning to us that the things of this world will not satisfy; that bitterness can consume us.

Prayer Journey — Fresh Wind

May I feel your renewal, your hope, replace my fears. I humbly bow before you this day to thank you for the love and grace you have shown to me. All praise to you dear Lord, the living God. All praise to your son Jesus.

Just Say the Word

It’s an astounding statement to say that this centurion demonstrated more faith in God with his simple act than the Israelites. It’s a statement that makes me ponder how much I trust God

Our True Heart Laid Bare

Seeking a heart for God is not practicing a faith that expects earthly reward in exchange for righteousness.It is not being religious so as to gain approval or honor from other people. A heart for God drives a faith that has a deep love for God; a faith that operates from a yearning for closeness […]

“Look What I’ve Done!”

In the last verse of Daniel 4, there is a line that grabs my attention: “And those who walk in pride he is able to humble (4:37, NIV).” What is it about pride that tempts us to inflate our ego and take credit for accomplishments that belong to God? Why must we be humbled before […]

Prayer Journey — Silencing Critics

Lord, this morning I think of Hezekiah who faced a powerful adversary. He did not seek strength to overpower, did not seek personal victory. Instead he sought to defend your name dear God, to punish those who ridiculed you. May we take such a stand, to humbly ask that we seek to bring honor to […]

The Thorns That Pierce Our Arrogance

It is not in my own abilities that I find the strength to manage hardship, it is in humble reverence to God that I find strength through Jesus Christ. When I am beaten down and worn out, that is when I am most open to the power of Christ within me.

At the Cross

Suddenly we heard Jesus cry out in a loud voice, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Indeed, I could not understand why God would allow such a brutal injustice.

Morning Praise: Humble Servant

“Ezra praised the Lord, the great God; and all the people lifted their hands and responded, “Amen! Amen!” Then they bowed down and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground.” (Nehemiah 8:6, NIV) Praise you, oh God. Praise your holy name. Praise your good works. Thank you for the love and grace you […]

A Journey of Faith With the Magi

The story of the magi is as much about their physical journey to find the Messiah as it is about their journey of faith. There is a lot we can learn from the magi. When you take a close look at the scripture in Matthew 2, you find the magi had four characteristics that were the foundation of their faith.