For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for Him. Philippians 1:29 (NLT) Are we privileged? No matter our position in this world, as believers we are distinctly privileged to trust Christ and claim all God’s promises. Do we forget our place in God’s…

The angel of the Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush.  Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up. So Moses thought, “I will go over and see this strange sight – why the bush does not burn up.” Exodus 3:2-3 (NIV)   Ah-ha!…

I lift up my eyes to the hills – from where will my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth! Psalm 121:1-2 (NLT)   This verse has always inspired me. I love nature and see God revealing Himself in all of creation. Sunrises, mountain views, any kind of water…

Therefore, keep alert, because you don’t know the day or the hour. Matthew 25:13 (CEB) My devotional book has me pondering what being ready for Jesus’ second coming looks like.   Today’s verse summarizes Jesus’ lesson from the parable about ten bridesmaids who are awaiting the groom’s arrival. Five have planned ahead and brought spare…

For we were not making up clever stories when we told you about the powerful coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. We saw his majestic splendor with our own eyes….we ourselves heard that voice from heaven. 2 Peter 1:16,18 (NLT) The more I study Scripture, the more I’m convinced it really happened.   Peter was…

Surprise! I am enjoying poetry as prayer. Poetry is usually too flowery for me, but this poem is practical and straightforward. Except for the ‘thee and thou’ language, it expresses my heart. I invite you to read the following poem slowly as though it were your personal prayer to God:   Oh Jesus, I have…

As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written; “Be holy because I am holy.”     1 Peter 1:14-15 (NIV)   One of the first things I’ve learned…

The details in the gospel writer’s story express the abundance of Jesus’ provision.

If the Bible is true, does that mean we read the stories literally? Or is there a truth behind the stories we’re meant to hear?

Yes, I have sinned. I have disobeyed your instructions and the Lord’s command, for I was afraid of the people and did what they  demanded. 1 Samuel 15:24 (NLT)   King Saul succumbed to popular opinion rather than following God’s instructions. Have you ever been in this situation?   The back story: The Israelites have…