"But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."1 Peter 2.9 When you hear the word holy, what comes to mind? Unfortunately, I think many people tend to envision a prideful, self-righteous mindset that disdains… Continue reading Holiness Exalts the Lord: Scripture Writing Plan April 2022
Tag: glorify God
Come as You Are, But…
I've seen many signs in front of church buildings that read, "Come as you are," and often wondered what message they hoped to convey. I know that regardless of "how" I show up to services, God knows whether my heart is focused on Him or caught up in self.
I may come impeccably dressed while my heart is in shambles.
I wear threadbare clothes while possessing a heart receptive to God's discipline.
Our attire, whether stainless or shabby, might be able to create a certain impression on people, but it will not conceal from God the state of our hearts or our minds.
When We are Tempted to Compare
Peter, having just been told in what manner he would die, wondered aloud what would happen to John. We like to know what is going to happen to other people. We wonder why they get the good stuff and we don't (or vice versa). We like to compare.
Comparison is not necessarily a bad thing. It has the potential to spur us toward better behavior, healthier choices, and/or much needed discipline. On the other hand, it may very well lead us to ingratitude, envy, jealousy, and depression.
What is Your ‘Why’?
In the race of life, there are moments when we forget why we are running. We focus on how to be better, faster, and stronger. We waste fruitless hours bemoaning the uneven ground, the unexpected rocks, the sand in our shoes, and more. We see something lovely, our breath momentarily suspended, only to trip over our own feet and hit the ground.
It's a long, hard race.
(Can I get an amen?)
In this race, every person, at some moment in time asks the question, 'Why am I here?' or 'Why am I doing this?'.
Indeed, why are you here?
Elihu's Corner 