Breaking the False Refuge of Shame

Breaking the False Refuge of Shame

When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?” (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) John 4:7-8 How many of us carry a stigma from the past, believing that we cannot serve the Lord because of what we’ve done?...
Redeeming the Time

Redeeming the Time

Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Ephesians 5:15-17 We usually use the word “redeem” in relation to sin. It means...
A Higher Standard

A Higher Standard

We love to ask God to vindicate us and prove others wrong—even if the “others” are fellow Jesus lovers. We get wounded by them, and our bleeding hearts cry, “JUSTICE! GOD, GIVE ME JUSTICE!” We think that justice always means being repaid good for the evil brought upon...
When Passion Is Tested

When Passion Is Tested

Peter asked, “Lord, why can’t I follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.” Then Jesus answered, “Will you really lay down your life for me? Very truly I tell you, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times!” John 13:37-38 How many times do we have...