We never like to address the inconveniences of parenting. We don’t like to tell expecting moms and dads, “Sleep now, because you won’t be sleeping for the next few years.” Or, “Enjoy that pre-baby vacation because it’ll be awhile before vacations are relaxing.” It all sound so “glass-half-empty,” doesn’t it? Here’s the reality: Raising children is inconvenient, but it’s the opportunity of a lifetime. When the Lord blesses us with children through adoption or birth, He has entrusted a young soul into our care for teaching, training, and affection. Your plans are going to be interrupted, and at what seems like the worst moments! How do we react to these interruptions?
Tag: Jesus
“I’m sorry, but…”
How many times have you apologized to someone for being short-tempered, irritable or forgetful? Nearly all of us have said something along these lines: "I'm sorry for being short with you, but I'm so stressed out." "I'm sorry I am late paying my bill, but I misplaced it." "I'm sorry I forgot your birthday, but… Continue reading “I’m sorry, but…”
Are you ‘getting nothing’ out of your church service?
Throughout my years of being a Christian, I’ve attended thousands of worship services. I’ve listened to sound and engaging preaching, endured a fair number of confusing sermons, sung countless songs, and watched the behavior of fellow Christians. I am ashamed to admit there are more than a few services from which I leave saying, “I got nothing out of it.” I frequently blamed the preaching, the song leading, the members nodding off, my own exhaustion, the failure of others to acknowledge my existence, but rarely did I do the thing that really needed to be done. Instead of saying, “I got nothing out of it, I should have been asking, “What did I put into it?” When we feel like we are leaving worship “unfulfilled,” it’s time ask ourselves some hard questions.
The Best Way to Resist Temptation in Your Life
Our smartphones have made access to pornography easier than ever. Mobile ordering fuels our craving for instant gratification. The ability to connect to just about anybody anywhere makes it easier to have illicit relationships. Yet despite the tendency to blame technology for rampant sin, temptation has been a problem since the beginning of time. In… Continue reading The Best Way to Resist Temptation in Your Life
Ways to be Considerate to One Another During Cold & Flu Season
Flu season is in rare form this year, with experts saying it is one of the worst in recent memory. This past Monday, my daughter went to urgent care with all the signs and symptoms of flu. Even though she tested negative, the doctor and I both agreed to treat it like flu. The… Continue reading Ways to be Considerate to One Another During Cold & Flu Season
For those who are struggling with fear
According to the popular YouVersion Bible App, “the bible verse that was shared, bookmarked, and highlighted most often by the global Bible App community in 2017” was Joshua 1:9: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you… Continue reading For those who are struggling with fear
Welcome to 2018.
On this New Year’s Day, we begin a new trip around the sun, full of expectations, hopes, and goals. Is one of your goals to draw nearer to God? He longs for each of us to know Him more, to trust Him more, to love Him more. Success comes from joining our small efforts with His great will. It comes as we study His word daily, call on Him daily (sometimes hourly!) and trust Him even when nothing makes sense.
What I learned when I stopped complaining for 24+ hours
Two weeks ago, our family traveled from Texas to Nevada so my spouse could go rock-crawling in our jeep. Having just written and brainstormed about curbing complaining, I was determined to implement it on the trip. I learned plenty of good lessons that I hope will help you as you work on kicking this habit.… Continue reading What I learned when I stopped complaining for 24+ hours
For Those Questioning the Effectiveness of Prayer after the Sutherland Springs Shooting
In the aftermath of the mass shooting at Sutherland Springs Baptist Church, there’s been plenty of blame and finger-pointing. There’s also been something else: People mocking those praying for the situation. This derisive attitude toward prayer is nothing new, but it may stir up doubts as to the effectiveness of prayer or the power of… Continue reading For Those Questioning the Effectiveness of Prayer after the Sutherland Springs Shooting
How to Stop the Complaining Contagion
Complaining is like a virus; if one person starts complaining, the negative sentiments spread like wildfire. Sometimes it’s called grumbling, muttering, or discontent. Whatever we call it, these grumblings have a way of seeping into the very fabric of our personality. Instead of being the joyful lights God intended us to be, our mutterings make us just as gray and gloomy as the rest of the world.
Elihu's Corner 