Devotionals
Five Characteristics of a Reasonable Believer
And Paul went in, as was his custom, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, (Acts 17:2 ESV) Unreasonable people weary me. Unreasonable Christians concern me. Christianity is not merely a “feeling” religion, it is a dynamic relationship that engages my mind and will, as much as my emotions. Although my faith in Christ is a spiritual reality, its implications and applications touch spirit, soul, and body. Paul came to the city of Thessalonica and reasoned with the people regarding Jesus Christ. His approach, although candid, was… Read More
Are You Refreshed Today?
Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus, (Acts 3:19-20 ESV) We all need times of refreshing! Financial concerns, health issues, relational tensions, job stresses – these things can weigh us down and leave us drained of energy and enthusiasm for life. Beyond these natural issues, there is a spiritual realm that must also be considered. How is your relationship with the Lord? Peter and… Read More
Loving People Who Don’t Deserve It
So they watched him and sent spies, who pretended to be sincere, that they might catch him in something he said, so as to deliver him up to the authority and jurisdiction of the governor. (Luke 20:20 ESV) A hard lesson I have learned, particularly as a leader, is that not everybody in my life is seeking my good. Peppered amongst the group of people who surround me – family, friends, church, etc. – there are people who seem sincere, but whose loyalties lie elsewhere. I can have a few different responses:… Read More
Blinded By My Own Perspective
O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! (Luke 13:34 ESV) Both of my kids are certified lifeguards. They were trained to recognize the signs of someone who is having trouble in the water, and to respond accordingly. However, when a person is struggling in the water, they can begin to panic. Often a drowning victim will even fight against… Read More
My Decisions Determine My Destiny
In these days he went out to the mountain to pray, and all night he continued in prayer to God. And when day came, he called his disciples and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles: (Luke 6:12-13 ESV) Yesterday I had a conversation with my daughter, helping her make some decisions regarding which upcoming classes to take at college. Her short-term decisions can set her up for long-term success. Last night my wife and I attended my son’s “Meet-the-Teacher” night at his high school. His teachers all spoke well of… Read More
Pastor Dale Jenkins 