The feelings of frustration tempt us to make impulsive and costly decisions. The waitress who walks out mid-shift because she’s having a bad night. The baseball player who quits mid-season because he is in a slump. The husband who walks out mid-marriage because he can’t handle the stress. Sometimes it’s good to pause in the midst of frustrating moments and listen for the voice of wisdom. Wisdom doesn’t yell, or weep, or beg. Wisdom whispers. Jesus told the parable of a frustrated vineyard owner: And He began telling this parable: “A man… Read More
Difficulties in life are inevitable; but strength of soul will sustain you. Everyone who comes to Me and hears My words and acts on them, I will show you whom he is like: he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid a foundation on the rock; and when a flood occurred, the torrent burst against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built. (Luke 6:47-48 NASB) Jesus described this “strength of soul” as: 1. One who comes to Jesus. 2. One who… Read More
With so many translations available, and more being published every year, many people wonder which translation they should use. The truth is there are many translations that are well worth reading. My practice is to use a different translation each year for my personal devotion time. Using a Bible app is an easy, inexpensive way to explore different translations. Having said that, not all translations are as accurate as others, and some, frankly, should be avoided. The Bible is a compilation of books, letters, and accounts penned over the course of many… Read More
Perhaps this has been a year of struggle. If so, daybreak awaits. The biblical account of Jacob wrestling with the Angel of God is intriguing. Jacob’s father (Isaac) and grandfather (Abraham) had both encountered God on an epic, yet very personal level. Jacob, on the other hand, knew about God, but had not yet encountered Him. (Many people today find themselves in a similar place.) Being a “take-matters-into-your-own-hands” kind of person, Jacob had learned and mastered the art of manipulation. He knew what he wanted and did whatever it took to get… Read More
Jesus is praying for you right now. There’s nothing you are facing that is outside of his knowledge and compassion. I am praying for them… for those whom you have given me, for they are yours. (John 17:9 ESV) Jesus came to earth as a Man, and was uniquely qualified to serve as our Prophet, Priest, and King. A prophet stands before people and speaks to them on behalf of God. A priest stands before God and talks to Him on behalf of the people. As our King Jesus exercises supreme sovereignty… Read More