When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown,…
LIVING MY FAITH
Persevering Under Life’s Trials
Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. James 1:12 If you’re anything like me, it’s been a while since you’ve been through a “trial.” Like, maybe even a whole day. I…
Are You “The Rich”?
But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business. James 1:10-11 THE HOLY…
Humble Circumstances
Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. James 1:9 THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. If you’re anything like me, you’ve known a humble circumstance or two. It’s okay. It’s necessary. It’s even…
Wisdom — Ask For It In Good Faith
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person…
Pure Joy In The Face Of Trials?
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4 THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978,…
Forgive Others — As Christ Forgave You
If you’re anything like me, you’ve required much forgiveness throughout your life. “Much” is an understatement, and even purposefully vague, but you know what I mean. There’s no need for us to recount our faults and failings here – neither our sins of old, nor our sins of today. We know what we did. And…
Our Family’s Most-Cherished Holiday Traditions
If you’re anything like me, your traditions and family customs were woven into the fabric of your life – whether they were handed down by the generations, stumbled upon by sheer serendipity, or simply found by the grace of God. Our family shares a LOT of traditions with Christians all over the world. Some, however,…
Just A Quiet Dinner Out, Please
If you’re anything like me, you don’t scan the restaurant, looking for familiar faces, or seek to go glad-handing when you go out to dinner. I would much rather head straight to our table and peruse the menu. Because, dinner. Dinner out! When I do happen to see someone I know, I might wave, but…
How We Read The Bible, A Little Every Day
If you’re anything like me, you know you should read the Bible, at least once, for your own knowledge. But it’s hard, right? Nope. Not anymore. Oh, you can do that? In the mid ’90’s, I read the New Testament of the Bible, just because there was a challenge in the church bulletin, during Lent.…