When the early church was forming, the patience of Christians set them apart from non-believers and attracted them to join the community. What did patience mean at that time? Why was it so highly valued?

How do you make New Year’s resolutions? Is God part of the process? Let’s turn these goals into answered prayers.

Consider Elizabeth, mother of John the Baptist. God is doing a great work through her pregnancy and her character. Her response to Mary is noteworthy.

The traditional Christmas story begins when Mary becomes pregnant. But the actual story begins 6 months earlier when John the Baptist’s birth is foretold. John will prepare the way for Jesus the King.

Following Jesus is a continuous activity, not a one time event. As we grow roots in Him and build lives based on His teachings, our faith grows strong. We encounter God’s Truth in action and the outcome is positive. Continuing to follow leads to thankfulness.

Our true characters burst forth when we’re pressured. But God can transform our characters as we learn to follow His ways. God’s commands can bring joy under stress because they make the path clear.

We are God’s masterpiece, both individually and as a community of believers. The church is God’s ongoing 24/7 project to reshape the world to resemble His beautiful kingdom. The church is not a location or time of worship but a diverse community of believers living in unity.

If I do nothing else in life, I want to please God.
So each day I remind myself of Psalm 19:14 – May my words and thoughts be pleasing to you, O Lord.
What can we do to please God? The verses in the Psalm just before this one give us an idea. Let’s look at them on the blog.

“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. They are like a man building a house, who dug deep down and laid the foundation on…

What really matters in life? How do we know? Do our actions match up with what we believe is important? I am praying along with the Apostle Paul for deeper understanding to know what matters.