But Rahab lied, not only saving the two spies’ lives but also her own, and ensuring the Israelites’ victory. “She said, ‘Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know where they had come from. At dusk, when it was time to close the city gate, they left. I don’t know which way they went. Go after them quickly. You may catch up with them. (But she had

Many years ago, as a young husband and father working in the ministry (and a few other jobs), I became very discouraged. I felt that no matter how much I worked, we simply did not have enough. Frankly, I got a little angry with God and accused Him of not providing for my family. Then I heard Him begin to ask me questions, as I walked around our apa

While it is not seen often in the histories recorded in the Bible, there are women who are called to lead. While some female leaders, like Jezebel, are condemned, there are women who step into that position without negative language or actions associated with them.Deborah is a good example. The Queen of Sheba’s actions are described without positiv

God Is FaithfulTrue to the messenger’s words, the following year, Sarah held her son in her arms. She named him Isaac, which means “he laughs.” Her laughter of doubt had turned to laughter of joy. “Sarah said, ‘God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me.’ And she added, ‘Who would have said to Abraham that Sar

Does Pluralism Present a Problem for Christianity?The problem that religious pluralism presents for Christians is that, by design, Christianity is an exclusive religion. It does not seek to keep people out but clearly defines the way in. When you think about Jesus’ claims, consider this: he did not leave room for multiple paths to spiritual truth.

1. The Bible Is a Mystical (or Magical) Book Written to Me In one sense the Bible is mystical — it ought to inspire awe, mystery and even fascination. But what I mean by mystical is that it takes upon a quality different than its intention. It’s treating the Bible almost like a magical book — where you can open it up, point to a random verse, and t

One of the couple’s sons went through a prodigal season, but they continued to reach out to him with tender love. Emma loved all searching souls. Dwight once said that when he had a “hard case,” he turned that person over to his wife because she could convince the person to decide for Christ. This was the same caring, bright, and noble woman who co

What Was God’s Original Design for Work? In Genesis 1:26-28, God creates humanity in his own image and likeness, bestowing upon them the responsibility to rule over the earth and all living creatures. This divine commission is a reflection of God's original plan for work: to steward and cultivate the resources of the earth in partnership with him.

1. Psalm 27:14 – Build Strength, because God Is FaithfulSometimes feeling drained comes because we struggle with human weakness. Psalm 27 is packed with ways God is good and faithful to His children in the midst of their weakness. God is the believer’s light, salvation, place of safety, helper, and more. In light of all these blessings, David said,

How do we do that? Prayer. Let the Holy Spirit fill you through prayer every day. All kinds of prayer. Pray about everything. Pray without ceasing (1Thessalonians 5:17).Oswald Chambers said, “Prayer is not preparation for the greater thing. It is the greater thing.”Even If…The thing is, as believers, we know that God is able to deliver us, but we a

1. We can trust in God’s Love. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 gives several descriptions of love: "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It alwa

How Does Paul Say We Serve One Another with Love?Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 12 that we should use all the gifts the Spirit gives to serve the common good. He adds in 1 Corinthians 13:2, “And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am not

A highly respected figure in contemporary Christian music, Ben Fielding co-wrote “Goodness of God.” Originally from Australia, Fielding collaborated with Hillsong Worship, one of the industry’s most influential worship ministries, and co-wrote other popular songs, including “Mighty to Save,” “Cornerstone,” and “This I Believe (The Creed).” Brian Jo

1. Silent NightThe words of this treasured hymn were written in 1816 by a young country priest in what would be present-day Austria. Joseph Mohr wrote the song when people longed for peace and calm, not long after the Napoleonic wars. The melody was composed by schoolmaster and organist Franz Xaver Gruber. According to legend, it was first performe

are the churchWill There Be Weddings in Heaven?While our thoughts are on weddings and spouses, let’s look at what the Bible says will happen when we are in glory. The Lord Jesus answers this question about marriage in heaven:“At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven” (Matthew 22:

1. Believing That the Holy Spirit Is Just an Active Force A popular catchphrase which catapulted its way into popular culture in the late 1970s is from the movie “Star Wars” – “may the force be with you.” I can remember at the time hearing and watching several preachers of the day, in attempting to explain the manner of the Holy Spirit, calling Him

3. You Must Allow Them to Develop and Use Their GiftsI sincerely believe that everyone who becomes part of a church has something to offer that church. Your job as a leader is to find out what those gifts, talents, and passions are. I have yet to meet someone who does not have some area of interest or expertise that they are excited about and, if g

1. Why Am I Considering a Career in Ministry? Where did this idea originate? Is this something my parents, spouse, or mentor wants me to do, or is this a genuine desire within me?A career in ministry is a special role, and most people who enter the ministry do so because they feel called to it, whether by hearing the voice of the Lord or by slowly

“‘Her prophets whitewash these deeds for them by false visions and lying divinations. They say, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord says’ — when the Lord has not spoken’” (Ezekiel 22:28).8. They Substitute Their Own Words for God’s Word“Then the Lord said to me, ‘The prophets are prophesying lies in my name. I have not sent them or appointed them or s

Romantic Love Is All-Encompassing If you have been to a Christian wedding recently, you might have listened to the endearing words of 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. These are often read during the ceremony to exemplify the lasting love between a man and a woman, and how it resembles the love God has for each of us.1 Corinthians 13:4-8 shares the qualities o