As the time drew near for Him to ascend to Heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem… But the people of the village did not welcome Jesus because He was on His way to Jerusalem. — Luke 9:51, Luke 9:53 NLT Palm Sunday marks the first day of Holy Week, the day we celebrate Jesus’s…
In My Weakness
My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness. — 2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV The Scriptures don’t provide the specifics, but we know that the apostle Paul struggled with what he referred to as a “thorn in [his] flesh” (2 Corinthians 12:7). Whatever the problem was, it was so bothersome…
Be Enough
I sat across the table from my dear friend, tears streaming down my face. “I don’t know what’s wrong with me,” I said, trying to regain my composure. “The kids are healthy. I have an incredible husband. We have a beautiful home. Our business is thriving. I should be grateful, I should be joyful, but…
A Different Kind of Men’s Group
Editor’s note: Nate Larkin is the founder of the Samson Society, a fellowship of Christian men with groups that meet virtually and in-person across the globe. Many men (but not all) first come to the Samson Society from a place of brokenness, addiction, or pain. But no matter how they arrive, all that attend recognize…
Be You… Be Imperfect
For so long I lived my life in the tension of two extremes. How can I serve more? Pour your unending love on your husband and children. When you’re tired, lean in and give more. Be patient, soft-spoken, kind, long-suffering. If someone is unkind to you, turn the other cheek. Smile more. Keep the house…
Sweet Friendship
When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene. — Mark 16:9 Strong, ongoing relationships positively influence our physical, mental, and emotional health. A 2009 New York Times article attested to the importance of friendship, citing a study done at the University of Virginia. Thirty-four students were…
Take Patience Too Far
You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. — Genesis 50:20 The story of Joseph in the Bible has always been one of my favorites. You can find the whole tale starting in Genesis 37:1. If you’re not familiar with…
The Fruit of Suffering and Grief
Peter: The Reluctant Sufferer I was talking to a group of about a hundred experienced pastors and church-growth leaders in a training seminar. The topic for the day was how to help people grow spiritually in ways that affect real life. I began by giving them a hypothetical problem to solve. “If you had to…
Dear Graduate
Editor’s Note: It’s almost graduation season 2020 and you’re going to need a gift for the graduates in your life! This year, in particular, we want to celebrate our graduates (ceremony or not) from all levels of schooling… junior high, high school, college, and graduate school. Three titles in eight beautiful covers will give you plenty…