Lately, I have been studying Christian contentment and have even written a few posts here on the blog. I recently had the opportunity to preach on the topic at First Artesia CRC. My goal with this sermon is to challenge Christians to reevaluate their priorities and find true satisfaction in God alone. - CLICK TO READ MORE.
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
When a man or woman of God invites you in as they process their grief of losing a loved one, they are giving you a spiritual gift to strengthen you. Throughout church history, many faithful Christians have suffered the loss of children and encouraged others through their experiences. Samuel Rutherford, John Flavel, John Bunyan, and George Whitfield … Continue reading Seasons of Sorrow
Sometimes you are called to preach from the pit. Pain, suffering, grief, and sorrow are not reasons for the minister to back away from his calling to proclaim the word of God; they are often reasons to lean into it. Times of peace and comfort highlight certain truths as we study scripture, but there are … Continue reading Preaching from the Pit
This Christmas will be difficult for many people. Not only will we have to deal with COVID restrictions, but many have lost jobs, businesses, homes, have had relationships severed, and, most grievous, have lost loved ones. I have heard many people say—when times are tough—they choose not to celebrate. How can they get into holiday … Continue reading Christmas in a Minor Key
This morning, I had the privilege of joining the radio show Kurt and Kate Mornings on Moody Radio in Florida. They asked me to discuss a recent post titled, It is a Weakness of Faith to Refuse to Mourn the Death of Loved Ones. If they release the segment as a podcast, I will link … Continue reading The Importance of Funerals
I am often troubled when I attend a funeral, and the leader refuses to let the people mourn. Those in charge of funeral arrangements, and often the families themselves, put so much effort into making the occasion a celebration of life, a graduation to heaven, that those in attendance might feel like their faith is … Continue reading It is a Weakness of Faith to Refuse to Mourn the Death of Loved Ones
This morning I awoke to heartbreaking news. I opened my email and saw Tim Challies’ newest post titled, My Son, My Dear Son, Has Gone To Be With the Lord. I always look to see what Tim has written, so he tends to be part of my morning routine; a daily companion. I never expected … Continue reading Pray for the Challies Family: Their Son Has Gone to Be with the Lord.
Dear Sir, Last Friday I received a note from Mr. Venn, which acquaints me with the loss of your wife, who, I find, expired suddenly after a long illness. When your rib is gone, you must lean firmer on your staff. (Psalm 23:4) What a bubble is human honor, and what a toy is human … Continue reading When Your Rib is Gone, Lean More Firmly on Your Staff
The Fight of Faith 