The first privilege of having an intimate relationship with God through prayer is that you get to know God. Consider what a great and awesome honor that is — to know the One who not only created all that exists but also directs it from His mighty throne. This is an amazing thought when you…
Prayer Is a Peace-Giving Gift
Many decades ago, one of my college friends gave me a small picture that has meant a great deal to me. There is nothing remarkable about it from an artistic standpoint, but it has given me great comfort during some important times nonetheless. In fact, not long ago, I asked the Lord for direction…
Nothing Wasted: God Doesn’t Waste Your Life
This is a great week to read chapters 1–3 in the book! Introduction (5 MINUTES) Leader, please read aloud to group: Predestined = {a course of events determined in advance by divine will} — Merriam Webster Dictionary As humans, we tend to want to settle most matters of life in terms of “either-or.” But with…
It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way Week 6 — Kingdom Minded. Eternally Focused.
Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him. — James 1:12 The pain we’re walking through… It isn’t for nothing. ~ Lysa Welcome to our last week of the It’s Not Supposed…
It All Ends Alright with God’s Promises
In all things God works for the good of those who love Him. — Romans 8:28 NIV Haman had it out for the Israelites. We read about his story in the book of Esther. A few hundred years earlier, the Israelites had defeated Haman’s people, the Amalekites. Haman was an Amalekite carrying a huge grudge…
The Joy Model: Radically Trusting God
Buzz. Buzz. Michelle’s cell phone vibrated twice on her night stand. It was a text coming in at 12:40 a.m. I was zonked out and the sound barely registered with me. “Jeff, Jeff, wake up. Look.” It was a text from my seventeen-year-old son’s ex-girlfriend: “Please check on Neal. He sent me this photo.” It…
Unwavering: Living with Defiant Joy Week 4 — Expectant Hope
Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill His promises to her! — Luke 1:45 He has promised that we can have joy in the midst of everything that life is throwing at us. ~ Stasi OBS Friends, You’re half-way through the Unwavering: Living with Defiant Joy Online Bible Study! Last week…
Six Hours One Friday Online Bible Study Week Five — Let’s Celebrate!
It is finished. ~ Jesus. God has been known to plan a celebration in a cemetery. ~ Max Welcome to our final week of the Six Hours One Friday Online Bible Study! Thank you for joining us on this journey as we’ve prepared our hearts for the Holy Week. Together, we’ve delved into the meaning…
We Are Safe
Paul’s words in Romans 8:28-39 are the most compelling on the subject of preservation anywhere in Scripture. I say this for two reasons. First, their purpose is to teach preservation. Second, this is the most extensive biblical passage teaching that God keeps his saints. Familiar words lead off: And we know that in all things…
What Should We Teach Our Kids About Friendship?
People who know me say that I’m friendly and hospitable. Often, I’m asked to reach out to others because I have a knack for making people feel safe, cared about and loved. Extending hospitality and compassion to others is always a blessing, but may I let you in on a little secret? The reason…