Remind the believers… they must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone. Titus 3:1-2 (NLT)   There’s an appropriate, effective and productive way for us to disagree with one another: don’t slander or quarrel, but be gentle and truly humble.   Taking the original…

I have become a servant… to present to you the word of God in its fullness – the mystery that has been kept hidden for… generations, but is now disclosed to all [believers]… God has chosen to make known…the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you… We proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching…

Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows. Isaiah 1:17 (NLT) I met a young man named Tommy at the Dunkin’ Donuts. Don’t spread rumors. We were only together 2 hours.   He opened the door as I entered, but grunted at my…

We’re told to be prepared to answer questions about our faith. This requires us to decide what we believe and why. It also means we recognize opportunities when they arise.

I am the Lord, the God of all the peoples of the world. Is anything too hard for me? Jeremiah 32:27 (NLT) Another school shooting. 17 dead. I hate the need to say ‘another’. It’s so distressing.   The analysts will talk about access to guns, video games and TV shows that desensitize us to…

Didn’t our hearts burn within us as he talked with us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us? Luke 24:32 (NLT)   The fire is back.   I noticed it missing when I taught a class recently. I didn’t have my usual passion for the Word and felt flat. I couldn’t pinpoint the…

Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10   After the holidays and nearly a month of travel, I’m trying to re-establish habits. Regular exercise, healthy eating, devotions and writing haven’t happened in quite a while. So after a workout class this morning, I sat at my desk with my devotional. The weekly…

The humble will see their God at work and be glad. Let all who seek God’s help be encouraged. Psalm 69:32 (NLT)   I’ve swallowed another dose of humility.   It’s no secret – I dislike the music at traditional worship services. I respect those who do and appreciate that everyone meets God in their…

Guard my life, for I am devoted to you. You are my God; save your servant who trusts in you. Among the gods there is none like you, O Lord; no deeds can compare with yours. For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God. Teach me your way, O Lord, and…

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…