Encouragement & Inspiration

Twenty-six years ago this summer, Rachael and I made our first family beach trip to Charleston, South Carolina. We had one infant son at the time, and we had no inkling of the long-standing family tradition we were starting. Since then, we’ve skipped the beach just once when we spent our vacation money to attend...

So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. (Romans 7:17) In chapter seven of Paul’s letter to the Romans, he discusses and explains an age-old issue: The problem of sin. Have you ever found yourself in Paul’s sandals? You know, those days when you feel prepared to...

Ah, the summer memories from my childhood! I  don’t ever remember ever wearing shoes during the summer months. I remember cool, foggy mornings with early birds heralding the dawn of a new day. I remember sleeping in, and I mean late. Nowadays that means 7:30 or 8 o’clock, but during my childhood, it meant pushing...

When Solomon had finished praying . . . the glory of the LORD filled the temple . . . and they worshiped and gave thanks to the LORD. (2 Chronicles 7:1-3) The ministry of the Holy Spirit is to glorify the Son of God (John 16:14). Jesus deserves that glory, and indeed, at the final meal with His...

And the scribes and the Pharisees began to question, saying, “Who is this who speaks blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” (Luke 5:21) The past is inescapable and irreversible. This is why it’s so important to be careful about what we say and do. You see, it is impossible to take back harsh...

Take to heart all the words I have solemnly declared to you this day. . . . They are not just idle words for you—they are your life. (Deuteronomy 32:46-47) The fifth book of the Bible, the book of Deuteronomy, is based on a series of sermons delivered by Moses about God’s law. An early Greek...

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” (Colossians 3:16) What If You Were Navigating A Route Across the US on Route 66? Imagine you are about to travel the historic Route 66. Your plan is to set out from Chicago, Illinois, and drive all the way to Santa Monica, California. So you get...

Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. (Matthew 6:9, KJV) The Lord’s Prayer – God Honoring The Lord’s Prayer has been the topic of many a sermon. The six specific petitions in this passage have been explored in numerous ways to help us, as believers, fully grasp the depth of Christ’s model...

This is why you also must be ready, because the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. (Matthew 24:44) Matthew 24:42-25:30 Are You Prepared for the Second Coming? In chapters 24–25 of the gospel of Matthew, Jesus teaches us about the last days and how we must remain vigilant and...

The Cups of Communion “Drink from it, all of you. For this is My blood that establishes the covenant; it is shed for many for the forgiveness of sins.” (Matthew 26:27–28) Passover In Matthew 26:17–30, we find Jesus and the disciples celebrating the Passover meal together like the Jewish people had been doing since their...