And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength. Nehemiah 8:10 ESV I grew up singing all the popular Sunday school songs of the 80s–90s: “Father Abraham,” “This Little Light of Mine,” “Peace Like a River” and many more. In particular, “The Joy of the Lord is My Strength” comes to mind. Now ther[...]
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9 ESV Recently, my ten-year-old son has taken an interest in having big muscles. I’ve noticed him flexing in the mirror, hoping that the few pushups he did[...]
"By this we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him; for whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything" 1 John 3:19-20 ESV My breathing was shallow, my hands shaky, and my conscience full of shame. Even though it was a cold February day, I was sweating profu[...]
“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God” Romans 13:1 ESV During this time of Covid and lockdowns, we have listened to health care authorities, and those in political power tell us what we can and cannot do; who w[...]
I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. - John 10:28 ESV He shuffles next to the idling vehicles at the red light, dragging one leg in a noticeable limp, weaving in and out of the traffic. He grips a paper cup and displays it prominently so his purpose is clear. His hand[...]
Then Moses said to God, “If I come to the people of Israel and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ what shall I say to them?” God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” Exodus 3:13-14a ESV “I AM WHO I AM”. A statement full of power and authority, yet, full[...]
In my prayer time this morning, I had an image of a Base Camp. Here we are gathered at the Base Camp. We are packing our bags, buzzing around in anticipation of the journey we are about to embark on. Some people are double-checking equipment, looking over the map, questioning if they have the stamina, the endurance, the time, or[...]
Then Elisha prayed and said, “O Lord, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. 2 Kings 6:17 ESV Elisha’s servant had risen early and gone out and found the city surrounded by Syr[...]
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8 ESV In a time where many things are being questioned, in some cases, changed, what remains trustworthy? This is an important question to consider. While the rumbling under our feet might be louder than usual, I can almost guarantee there have been seasons of[...]
I am acting with great boldness toward you; I have great pride in you; I am filled with comfort. In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy. 2 Corinthians 7:4 ESV I once heard someone say, the key to avoiding getting hurt or offended was to keep your expectations low. As I reflected on my own life and choices in contrast[...]