Many preachers today seem to know our anxieties, worries, and depression. When they speak, it is as if they know what we’re going through. We hang on their every word with bated breath, for it seems that the “secrets of our hearts are disclosed” (1 Cor 14:24-25). However, many of these preachers describe our hearts … Continue reading Warning: False Prophets in Pulpits this Christmas
I understand how little concern the followers of the world have about the moral risks associated with earthly success. "Sure," says the enthusiastic seeker of wealth or fame, "I acknowledge there might be some dangers, but who would not be willing to take the chance if they could just be among fortune's favorites? Grant me … Continue reading The Deceitfulness of Riches
We can often find ourselves in spiritually desolate places. What makes a time or place desolate? Sometimes, it is the sin of those around us. People can sin against us, and the pain they cause can be deep and personal. Other times, rulers and authorities grieve our hearts by calling evil good and good evil. … Continue reading God’s Provision in Desolate Places
Christ is always with His people, acting as a shield and deliverer. Our understanding of this truth depends on our ability to recognize the extent and strength of our adversaries, as well as the value of the treasure divinely safeguarded. We face various assaults that only Christ can shield us from. These adversaries, both countless … Continue reading The Watchful Care of Christ
Many people have difficulty celebrating Christmas because of their pain and heartache. But for the Christian, the Lord often uses pain and sorrow to move us into a more profound celebration because we realize that the Child we are celebrating is our ultimate redemption from all pain and heartache. The following profound thought by G. … Continue reading He Shall Save His People From Their Sins
The silence of God is something we all must endure, but we must never misinterpret it. Sometimes, God seems distant, and prayers appear unanswered, but that does not mean he is absent or abandoned his people. It is where our faith is to be exercised, as he always has more magnificent plans in motion than … Continue reading The Silence of God
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
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, 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
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
The Fight of Faith 