Speech class taught me to make my first sentence captivating for my audience. The wow factor gets their attention, and the skill of the presenter keeps it focused until the end of the message. I’ve listened to some sermons that were hard to sit through because of bad public speaking skills. I wonder, though, how … Read more
Almighty and Holy God, you are El Roi, the God who sees me. You know my frailties and my tendency to forget. Thank you that Paul reminds me of the gospel as he writes his salutation. He puts the most important message first in his letters. I need that repetition, Father. Thank you for your … Read more
Today is a beautiful day, because what men intend for evil, God can turn for good, “So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe, the robe of many colors that he wore. And they took him and threw him into a pit. The pit was empty; there was no water … Read more
Churches have staff come and go like any organization, but when does it become excessive and a red flag for an unhealthy church? Doesn’t the congregation merit an honest explanation? What is the role of the elders in allowing the workplace environment that precipitates employee loss? Do you see similar circumstances at your church? “Two … Read more
Lord Jesus, it is good that I remind myself that you are with me. As Psalm 139 says, there is nowhere I can go that you are not with me. You are constant in my waking and sleeping. Your grace gives me peace and assurance. It eases my spirit and calms my anxiety. You are … Read more
Today is a beautiful day, because Abraham showed hospitality to the three visitors who came to tell him that Sarah would have a son, “‘Let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree, while I bring a morsel of bread, that you may refresh yourselves, and after that … Read more
It’s time for me to express my sincere thanks to all of you who support this project. The amount I will be able to transfer to Safe Connections approaches $1,000 in royalties to be paid next month. This is for the victims. God continues to do great things through this project. Many have contacted me … Read more
Father God, this verse is thought provoking. Paul wrote to Timothy from prison, knowing his earthly life was coming to an end. You rescued him from prison before, from shipwreck, and from stoning. Paul knew what it was to be pulled from the pit of evil physically. He also understood that you would rescue him … Read more
Today is a beautiful day, because “A river flowed out of Eden to water the garden, and there it divided and became four rivers.” (Genesis 2:10 ESV) Water #joyinverse #blessedthisdayandeveryday
Loving and Compassionate God, thank you for preserving Paul’s writing so that it is available to encourage me. You are my foundation. Jesus, you are the rock that is higher than I. You are the constant presence upon which I depend. You are the protector and lover of my soul. You are there when others … Read more