Christmas Joy Mingled with Sorrow

Even in the midst of Christmas merriment, we cannot help remembering those who have passed away. The longer we live, the more we feel to stand alone. The old faces will rise before the eyes of our minds, and the old voices will sound in our ears, even in the midst of holiday mirth and … Continue reading Christmas Joy Mingled with Sorrow

Walking in God’s Strength

My father is now in his mid-80s and is retired from pastoring due to health issues, but he still fills the pulpit occasionally. One of the struggles his health gives him is shortness of breath, yet it has never stopped him from preaching. Several times, he has been sitting in the pew waiting to preach, … Continue reading Walking in God’s Strength

I Thought I Could Do It Alone

I thought I could do it alone, but I found out I could not do it at all. Every time I fell, I would get up and promise myself it would be the last time. I would find the point of weakness, put a fence around it, and promise to stay away, but the fences … Continue reading I Thought I Could Do It Alone

God’s Mercy Truly is Mercy

We often live as if we deserve mercy from the hands of the Lord. Some seem to believe He is obligated to provide it to us. Many people seem to assume he is at fault if he does not give equal mercy to all. All of these assumptions are wrong. A god who is required … Continue reading God’s Mercy Truly is Mercy

Resisting the Lure of Vanity

By the term "vanity," we comprehend all those things which are prone to absorb the desires and affections of men. The Apostle John categorizes them all as: "the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life!" They rightfully merit the label of vanities, as they are certain to disillusion … Continue reading Resisting the Lure of Vanity