It is much easier to fit in with the world around us than it is to stand out and live differently as Jesus called us to do.  But as true disciples of Christ we know that our lives will be more blessed when we follow His instructions. The lifestyle that Jesus described in the Sermon on the Mount is the complete opposite of what is accepted and expected in the world we live in. Jesus began His message by saying, “You have heard it said”….. and then added, “But I say.”  He made it very clear that His ways are not the world’s ways and His instructions for His followers…

Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. – John 8:32 Have you ever looked in the mirror and began picking away at yourself? Your hair color, the wrinkles, the blemishes, the weight, the list goes on and on. Maybe it’s not you but others who carelessly make mean comments that stick like glue and whittle away at your confidence and self worth. It’s not a pretty picture and before you know it these thoughts and words have taken root and your self image has been trampled. But God’s Word, the ultimate source of Truth is the only script we should be listening too or…

 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. – Romans 5:8 Yesterday the post was about the value that God sees in each of us. I pray that it was encouraging to you and also served as a reminder that He sees all His creation as valuable. That includes those who try our patience, take advantage of us, use us and persecute us. We are called to love them anyway just as Jesus did. On the night Jesus was betrayed He washed His disciples feet, including the feet of Judas who left shortly after to betray him for 30…

About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lemasabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” – Matthew 27:46 I have always wondered about today’s passage because the bible tells us that He will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5), yet at the darkest, most painful moment of Jesus’ life He was forsaken, abandoned and rejected. I understand that the full weight of our sins were upon Him and that sin separates us from God, which means that the sin separated Him from the Father. I also believe that out of His amazing love for us, Jesus willingly took our sin…

When I think of harp music and the musician that is playing the harp, I get a mental picture of elegance, peace and serenity. When I think of a warrior it creates a much different scene. I picture strength, boldness, confidence and action. A person after God’s own heart possesses the Godly duo of gentleness and strength. David possessed this Godly duo. “I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem who knows how to play the harp. He is a brave man and a warrior. He speaks well and is a fine-looking man. And the Lord is with him.” 1 Samuel 16:18 Christ showed us how we need both…

Lord, give me the Strength to Endure