As we enter a New Year, many find themselves making resolutions that are unrealistic and inevitably short-lived. Based on Paul’s exhortations to the Thessalonian Christians, we are encouraged to set several specific, biblical resolutions that when applied, will change our lives as we seek to follow Christ. 1 Thessalonians 5:1-18 Now concerning the times and the…
The New Testament book of James is an intensely practical letter, focusing on how Christians should behave as we put the teachings of God’s Word into practice. Trials occur in every life but God enables believers to experience joy even in the midst of difficult circumstances. James 1:1-18 ESV Greeting 1 James, a servant[a] of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,…
The philosophy that dominates the lives of many people today, is the attempt to find one’s happiness in the things of this life. The fact is, neither wealth nor great numbers of children, nor years of long life can bring the real happiness or blessedness that people seek after. True happiness is only found in…
While searching for the meaning of life, the Preacher discovers that wealth brings burdens and anxiety rather than satisfaction. He asks, what benefit money might afford, or what advantage does it offer? His conclusion? Not much!—until, that is, we acknowledge that all good gifts, and our ability to enjoy them, come from God. Ecclesiastes 5…
The Christian life as a race. The encouragement of the heroes of faith who have gone before. Looking to Jesus, considering Him, lest we be weary and fainthearted. Hebrews 12:1-3 Jesus, Founder and Perfecter of Our Faith 12 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside…
For most of us, 2020 has not turned out to be the year we’d been hoping for. This novel coronavirus has made its way into each of our lives, all of the headlines, and almost every country on the planet! The question is, how should the Christian respond in the face of such events? The…
1 Peter 1:1-8 English Standard Version (ESV) Greeting 1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who are elect exiles of the Dispersion in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, 2 according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, in the sanctification of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and for sprinkling with…