Probably all of us have set to some task not out of any real joy or desire to complete it, but because someone else expects it of us. We perform the duty out of obligation. God expects us to follow Him with an attitude of willing obedience, not grumbling obligation.…
I’ve heard on more than one occasion, “I’m never going to get it right, so why should I even try?” I understand frustration and discouragement, but I hope we never apply that attitude toward our Christian walk. You see, we do not walk alone. We do not face challenges on…
HYMN DAY! “Footsteps of Jesus” by Mary B.C. Slade is such an encouraging hymn! We usually only sing 3 or 4 of these verses, but I’m going to share all 7—yes, 7!—with you. (Tell me…which is your favorite?) 1 Sweetly, Lord, have we heard Thee calling, Come, follow Me! And…
One way Christians can “stand out” in the world is the way we treat others. The mantra for many is “look out for number one.” The Christian is called to do the opposite—to consider the feelings and needs of others before seeking to please self. When we remember that each…
Paul wrote these words to the believers in Philippi a long time ago, but it’s a message we can take to heart today. When Christian brothers and sisters support each other, love each other, and work together for the betterment of the Kingdom, we bring glory to our Heavenly Father.…
When we reach verse 7, we move from a theme of spiritual unity to a theme of spiritual diversity as far as giftedness. I love the word grace here, because every spiritual gift is a blessing given by God’s favor. Note this grace is give to each one. No believer…
Verse 3 calls believers to unity. That unity comes from three elements we share: 1) our common salvation, granted through acceptance as Christ as Savior; 2) the Holy Spirit’s presence and enlightenment in our lives; and 3) our obedience to the Lord. These communal elements provide our foundation of oneness.…
HYMN DAY! “We Are Called to Be God’s People” by Thomas A. Jackson was put to music written by Franz Joseph Haydn and is really pretty when sung. The words are powerful when you consider putting them to action. (You can listen to it here, if you like: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1L-Wjyn6nGI) Verse…
Yesterday I shared that Paul urged the Ephesian Christian to assume an attitude of Christ-likeness. If they did so, their actions would reflect that heart attitude. “With all” are strong words, because they indicate each of these characteristics are to be exercised fully. Humility and gentleness often get a bum…
Paul wrote an encouraging and edifying letter to the Ephesian church while he was in a prison cell. But that’s not why he called himself a prisoner in the Lord here. He wanted to remind his readers that living one’s life according to the Gospel of Christ wouldn’t be popular…
