Women of the Bible: Rizpah

As King Saul’s concubine, Rizpah lived largely as less than—less than the wives, less than any bona fide member of the royal family. Her children, though considered legitimate, were unlikely to ascend to the throne. Acquired for their beauty or political connections, concubines were unseen and unheard.

Such was Rizpah.

Scripture doesn’t record a single word that Rizpah says. But her courage, loyalty, (more…)

God Can Use You

Some people shy away from speaking about Jesus or doing anything in His name because they’re convinced God can’t use them. In their minds, they have nothing special to offer, or they feel discredited by their pasts. 

But Rahab, a prostitute living in the ancient city of Jericho, didn’t allow even her present sins to prevent her from doing what God had (more…)

Speaking Truth to Power

O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
You discern my thoughts from afar.—Psalm 139:1-2 (ESV)

Our society has clung to the idea of speaking truth to power in an effort to effect change. The term often is used in the face of perceived oppression or powerlessness. What if the powers to (more…)

When Giants Fall

Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.—1 Corinthians 10:12

A godly young man I know has always been very cautious and prayerful in his walk with Christ and decisions for his future. “I’m afraid of making that first bad choice,” he has said. That’s a healthy fear, especially as you watch Christian leaders fall like dominoes. (more…)

Rebounding from Failure

And when they came to the threshing floor of Chidon, Uzzah put out his hand to take hold of the ark, for the oxen stumbled. And the anger of the Lord was kindled against Uzzah, and He struck him down because he put out his hand to the ark, and he died there before God. And David was angry because the (more…)