A Dream Come True?

When God opens a door of opportunity, it’s not always easy to walk through. Writing is a learned craft and one that hasn’t come easy for me. I love preaching, but the writing was a different kind of animal. Thankfully, I am learning.

I attended a Writer’s Conference in May with many experts, publishers, editors, teachers, professional writers, and regular people like me who are still learning the craft. The conference assembled to praise the Lord, get acquainted, and learn from the varied multitude of teachers and informative sessions. Besides all the contacts, handouts, and training, I came away with the confidence to pursue my dream of writing a book. Yeah! I’ve started. read more

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God’s ASTONISHING Love and Care When We are Weary                      

One thing I love about the Scripture is how it speaks to me. Whatever I need, I find comfort, peace, or direction. God’s divine love and care shine out of the pages, especially when I feel discouraged or less than adequate. The Scripture restores and reaffirms God’s gentleness and concern even when frail, weary, or doubting my ability. Look at the life of Elijah in the book of 1 Kings 17-19. 

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JESUS HAS ALL AUTHORITY, BUT DOES THE SCRIPTURE? PART 2

All authority in heaven and earth is given to Jesus (Matthew 28:18). Not some, but ALL! 

Jesus carried the authority of deity, being fully God and fully man. God the Father was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Jesus (Colossians 1:19). Jesus claimed that authority when He stated, “I and the Father are one” (John 10:30; John 17:21).

Jesus’ powerful authority distinguished him from the teachers of the law and prophets. And, in this same passage, demons, under the control and power of Satan, are subject to the authority of Jesus.

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THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS AND THE WORD OF GOD What Authority Guides Your Life? PART 1

Authority, instituted by God, is necessary to rule a nation. Since 1776, the Constitution has governed Americans, guaranteeing freedoms of inalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Over the last few months, the authoritarian mindset of political leaders, health officials, Big Tech, and elites has attempted to alter those freedoms.

In welcoming contrast, the perfect authority of God brings a joyful response, offering privileges and liberties and guidance from a loving, powerful God. On the other hand, the abuse of power of human leaders leads to losing individual rights and freedoms.

Guarding Against the Pied Piper of the World

I’ve discovered a God-secret! The enemy, skilled at making things attractive to the eye of our soul, seeks ways to play on our passions, luring us away from God’s direction. A safeguard against “giving in” to popular cultural values and opinions is to be immersed in Scripture. The tale of Hamelin may be a helpful illustration.

How to Kick Anger in the Teeth

We’ve all experienced anger, whether a minor frustration or extreme rage. Anger, a natural emotion, can be healthy, beneficial, or destructive. It can spill out with words that bite like venom. Anger destroys relationships, galvanizes politicians, divides families, and separates friends.  

In our nation, the dominant emotion of anger is on the rise. A war of hate is burgeoning at the national level, threading through the corridors of life in states, cities, and homes. 

When anger comes to my house, how do I close the door on it? 

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I TOOK THE CHALLENGE. WILL YOU?

Bill Popejoy was not strong enough to stand. He sat on a chair in front of the assembly of eager listeners. His physical frailty didn’t equal the aliveness in his voice. Hearing of the nine surgeries, including a prosthetic jaw, made me wonder why he had traveled from Missouri to Minnesota to speak to us. Yet, his life-giving message energized him as it compelled us to listen.

ARE YOU MISSING OUT ON THE SWEETS?

ARE YOU MISSING OUT ON THE SWEETS?

There are many philosophies and theological ideas floating in our society today.  Many are well-intentioned.  Many are self-helps, which we pursue.  Yet, the greatest resource and growth tool for those of us who seek to lknow and ove God comes through the living and active Word of God.   It’s no mistake the name of Jesus is the Word of God, as is our Bible. If you are just starting on the Manual or a seasoned bibliophile, I’d hope to encourage you along the way, with sweet steps to help.

Part 2 Do You Excuse Disobedience?
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Part 2 Do You Excuse Disobedience?

In Part 1, Saul was anointed and appointed by God the King of Israel.  His humility soon turned to pride and excuses for not obeying God’s commands. The proof of a good King was his obedience to God’s command and rejection of idol worship.  The same proof applies to us today.  Obedience to God is the key to our relationship and approval from God.  Overcoming excuses and pride takes work on our part but becomes easier the more we dwell in the Word, obey it, and grieve over sin.