Applying Forgiveness

As a preacher, my number one concern is not whether or not people enjoyed my sermon or “got something out of it” (whatever that means). Rather, my concern is whether or not they actually put the text into practice and followed Jesus in a deeper way. Now that we’ve...

Thank God

What is the simplest way to thank God?   Prayer is the simplest and surest way to convey appreciation to God. Sincere simple prayer, given from the heart and expressing your thanks for the wonderful life you have been given, will touch God deeply.

How to Calm Your Spirit

How to Calm Your Spirit Deep Breathing. Sit or lie down comfortably. Rest your hands on your stomach. Mindfulness Meditation on a Scripture Verse. Focus on your breath.  Visualization. Close your eyes, relax and imagine a peaceful place. Repeating affirmations. Sit...

Going Through the Motions

Even though I’ve been a Christian for 30 years, have advanced degrees in theology, and have been a pastor for 16 years, there are times when a scripture catches me by surprise. Genesis chapter four was recently one of these passages. This passage deals with an...

From Guilt, to Grace, to Hope

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12 These are some of the most familiar, beloved, and memorized words in all of Scripture. Yet, as familiar as they...

Our Own Worst Enemies

There are plenty of things that keep people away from God: our worldly culture, business, allure of other religions, temptation, individuals passionately opposed to the church, Satan, and more. Yet, in my experience, near the top of the list of factors keeping people...