I love how God reveals a passage of Scripture that previously you skimmed over but suddenly are taken back by, as if you never read it before. This is one of those passages for me because Jesus is addressing a number of issues by taking a concept that practically all Christians are aware of (tithing), but adding a dimension that transcends our preconceived notions.
Read MoreFear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.
Read MoreIn those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. And all went to be registered, each to his own town. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
Read MoreGod inspired Matthew to pen these verses as a stern reminder and humble warning to all that from the beginning, the birth of Jesus Christ came in opposition to the selfish desires of man, both then and now, and we would be remiss to forget what happened in Bethlehem.
Read MoreThe Christmas story is full of intrigue, excitement and anticipation. When we think of Christmas, various images come to mind of Jesus, Mary and Joseph; angels, shepherds and wise men; and a stable manger, because there was no room at the inn. However, tucked within the pageantry on display and imagery we envision are raw emotions the characters must have been feeling in the moment.
Read MoreDo not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.
Read MoreMore often than not, we view excuses in a negative light, but they can be positive as well. Here in Luke 9:57-62, we are faced with the dilemma of how reasonable excuses are challenged by Jesus for their superficial nature because they mask true heart desire.
Read MoreMany people struggle discerning the voices in their head. What do they mean? Where are they coming from? Why am I hearing them? All are valid questions. However, who is speaking is perhaps the greatest question we must answer, because discerning the messenger far outweighs unlocking the message.
Read MoreLike a mirage in the distance, Jesus demonstrated to His disciples a simplistic lesson that fruit is evidence of a blossom, both practically and spiritually. The fig tree bore the appearance of abundance but in actuality did not even have the most simple and miniscule evidence of fruit on it. How prophetic when compared to our own spiritual health!
Read MoreExamining all aspects of sin is crucial to overcoming it. Sin is serious. It separates us from fellowship with God and drives the nails Jesus bore for our unrighteousness deeper still into his innocent body. The real question that must be answered though is what am I going to do about it and how committed will I be to see it through.
Read MoreIf you drive by my house on any given Saturday, you will likely find me on my hands and knees individually pulling weeds up by their roots for hours and hours. Why? Because it is a dirty and exhausting process, but absolutely necessary if I truly want to fix the problem and address the true source of my affliction at its core.
Read MoreNow faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
Read MoreAll Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
Read MoreTherefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
Read MoreNo temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
Read MoreTherefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.
Read MoreI appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Read MoreFor freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.
Read MoreFor by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
Read MoreRejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
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