And inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment . . . – Hebrews 9:27
The other day I learned thirdhand about the death of someone who hurt me deeply a few years ago and caused a significant relationship to be estranged. My first reaction was sorrow for her soul, remembering her indifference when I (more…)
For we know that the whole creation groans and suffers the pains of childbirth together until now. And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body. For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is (more…)
Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. – Romans 12:15
In the past week, we’ve learned of several families who have experienced sudden loss. No one welcomes grief in any season, but it’s especially unwelcome in the holiday season. And it’s not just the very recent losses that sting; it’s the losses of those who have long been (more…)
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. – James 3:17
I’m a biblical purist, and I have been known to have little patience with people who misrepresent Christ while managing to sound spiritual. Here are a few classic examples of stupid things Christians say:
Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. – Matthew 6:10
We pious types like to throw around the notion that we pray according to God’s will, but do we really? Do we voluntarily sign up to be afflicted, to see loved ones taken from us, or to face hunger or hardship because of some greater (more…)