But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.” But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness…
Dance in Thanks
David danced before the LORD with all his might. — 2 Samuel 6:14 Too often we are hesitant to dance, whether it’s dancing in the literal or figurative sense of the word. Perhaps that’s because much of our society’s dancing seeks to glorify the created rather than the One who created. But as Solomon so…
Overcoming Anxiety with Peace
When Houston energy worker Shawn Baker was laid off in 2015, she opened a new business that quickly became a “smash hit.” It’s a place for angry, stressed – out, or anxiety – filled people to take out their frustrations on inanimate objects. Inside the building are four rooms lined with thick plywood, all stocked…
The Reach of the Revival
I believe the world is upon the threshold of a great religious revival, and I pray that I may be allowed to help bring this about. I beseech all those who confess Christ to ask Him today, upon their knees, if He has not some work for them to do now. He will lead them…
The Fear of the Lord
The Fear of the Lord This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; He saved him out of all his troubles The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and He delivers them Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him Fear the…
Every Time We See People as Ordinary, We Turn the Wine Back into Water
What Jesus did here in Cana of Galilee was the first of the signs through which He revealed His glory; and His disciples believed in Him. — John 2:11 I’ve never met a new parent who isn’t positive their baby is the cutest on planet earth. Even the so-so ones in their minds could rival…
Restoration: Holiness
HOLINESS MEANS HEALING Fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. — Romans 12:2 The Message It seems that much of what Christians believe they are called to is a cluster of activities that include regular church attendance, Bible study, giving, and attending the annual retreat. Now — what is all this…
The Astonishing Gift
I am the Word that became flesh. I have always been, and I will always be. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. As you think about Me as a baby, born in Bethlehem, do not lose sight of My divinity. This baby who grew…
Let Go of Shame
Genesis 3:9-10 But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” He answered, “I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.” Isn’t it crazy how the first feeling Adam and Eve expressed in the garden after they sinned was shame? I remember listening to…
Blessing Your Grandkids
Before we launch into some creative and meaningful ideas for grandparents, let me (John) share with you something I remember vividly about my grandfather. We called it the Great Parakeet Fiasco, and it became a legend in our home. I was in second grade. Our parakeet had escaped from its cage while we were at…