Monthly Archives: October 2024

Drifting

Drifting is subtle and it is dangerous. Spiritual drifting takes place through a series of small compromises. One small compromise leads to another, which leads to another, which leads to another. Usually the compromises seem innocent at first–we barely notice that they are making an impact on our spiritual life. But over time, the small compromises add up and we find ourselves in trouble. Continue reading

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October 30

Often life doesn’t make sense. It can be hard. In those times we can always come to God with our laments. But don’t get stuck in the pit of self-pity and despair: look up with eyes of faith to the one whose love never ceases, whose mercies are new every morning, and sing, “Great is Thy Faithfulness!” Continue reading

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Tears

Know that God sees your tears, he hears your cries of lament. He hasn’t forgotten you; hasn’t forsaken you. The songs of joy will return in time. Continue reading

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Devoted to Good Works

While good works are never the way to salvation, good works are the natural result of it. In fact, we are saved to do good works. Therefore Paul says, “those who have believed in God” should “be careful to devote themselves to good works.” They should “learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need and not be unfruitful.” Continue reading

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It’s Not Just for Breakfast Anymore

Grace not only saves us, it teaches us to say “no” to sin. Each day we are confronted by choices–tempted by sin. Living by grace enables us to say no to sin.It also trains us to do what is right. “Grace teaches us . . . to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age” (12). Continue reading

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Looking for Leaders

Good leadership is crucial to any organization. Good, spiritual leadership is essential to a healthy church. Paul’s instruction to Titus is a reminder of this. He reminds him of the kinds of qualities to look for in choosing leaders. Continue reading

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Itchy Ears

There is an epidemic of itchy ears today. This should be no surprise, as Paul warned us that this would be the case. Those with itchy ears listen to only what they want to hear. Continue reading

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Don’t Forget the “So That”

The reason for the teaching and application and living out the truth, is so that we are fully equipped to do ministry — both ministering to one another and also reaching out to the world around us with his good news. Continue reading

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Purity

The Psalmist also speaks of the value of meditating on the word. “I have hidden your word in my heart.” (11). He verbally recounts the word with his lips (13). “He meditates on the Lord’s precepts and considers his ways” (15). As we repeat the word verbally, meditating on it, and memorizing it, we are helped greatly in our efforts to live pure lives. Continue reading

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Replacing Fear with Boldness

Fear keeps many of us from accomplishing the great things God has for us. We feel intimidated by others–sometimes even pushed around and controlled. We back off from doing what we know we should do. Continue reading

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