The Joy We Find in Gratitude

. . . and when they had called in the apostles, they beat them and charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.—Acts 5:40b-41

For years, Thanksgiving week became the time when I would focus on (more…)

The Object of Our Faith

. . . For truly I say to you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you.—Matthew 17:20

In the face of trials, we pray for God’s favor, aka a resolution that fits nicely in our happily-ever-after scenario (more…)

Glory in Suffering

Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So, when He heard that he was sick, He stayed two more days in the place where He was. – John 11:5-6

I’ve talked before about those precious Jobian friends who are quick to point an accusing finger in our times of suffering. Surely we’re suffering because of our sin, they tell us. (more…)

That Watched Pot

But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.—Isaiah 40:31

Waiting on the Lord to answer a prayer request can be like watching a pot that seemingly never comes to a boil. Everything in your meal hinges on (more…)

Giving Thanks in All Circumstances

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. – 1 Thessalonians 5:18

We think of Thanksgiving as a time to give thanks for our blessings, but sometimes the holidays don’t bring to mind thoughts of abundance. They instead remind us of loss and want.

The empty chair that just a year ago was filled. That familiar (more…)