God’s Name and Reputation: Do They Matter Today?
Introduction Why should God’s name and reputation matter to us? Last week I talked about the fact that we witness all the time no matter what. In other words, people watch our behavior all the time. Consequently, they often make decisions about not just Christians, but Christ based on our actions. So, although we need to grow closer to Christ so that the Holy Spirit can help to mold and shape us, we do need to watch our behavior too. I compared the impact our behavior has on others to the judgments that God placed on other nations that mocked Israel. The impact of our behavior on others: a reminder I’m still reading Ezekiel. His vision and prophecy included a restoration of the nation of Israel. What’s interesting though is some of God’s reasoning for doing so. In the very last verse of chapter 38, God says He will magnify and sanctify Himself and make Himself known in the sight of many nations. Why? So that He is known. God’s name and reputation in the Bible Then in Ezekiel 39:7, He says that He will make His holy name known in the midst of his people and not allow it to be profaned anymore. God makes a point that His name and reputation are pretty important to Him. This reminds me of Luke 19:38-40. This is during what is often called the triumphal entry. Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a colt and the people are praising Him physically and very vocally. The wording of their praise is very specific. “BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD.” (NASB95) The reason it’s printed in all caps is that it is a direct quote from the Old Testament, in this case, Psalm 118:26. But note here the focus again on Him coming in the name of the Lord.” What does this mean today? Obviously His name is pretty important. And I want to emphasize that it is a consistent theme throughout the entire Bible. I talk much about the fact that the Bible is about relationship. It’s about God wanting to have a relationship with us. But we are also reminded sometimes of the difference between Him and us. I think we need to remember that special combination. He is so Holy that even His name is Holy and deserves our reverence and respect Conclusion This reverence and respect is akin to the concept of ‘fear of the Lord.’ Very often, we get caught up in the relationship part and forget the reverence. Or, we are so caught up on the reverence part that we forget the relationship part. But when we remember both parts at the same time, something special happens. Like David in Psalm 139, we realize just how beautiful and special it is that He wants us! Special note If you or someone you know struggles with being able to believe just how much they are loved, I can help! You can see my counseling page here.
The Impact of Behavior: Lessons from Ezekiel’s Prophecies on Judgment and Christian Witness
Living as Exiles: Ezekiel’s Gloom-Filled Prophetic Call to the Israelites in Babylon “I’ve been reading Ezekiel in my daily devotions lately. It doesn’t start out exactly cheery. Ezekiel and many other Israelites are living as exiles in Babylon. Then God told Ezekiel he was going to be His prophet. For twenty chapters, Ezekiel prophesies doom and gloom for Judah and, in particular, Jerusalem (Ezekiel 4-24). Unveiling the Abominations: Idolatry and God’s Separation from His People God then shows Ezekiel the Temple and the abominations that are occurring, including an idol in the very courtyard of the temple. Then He shows him that He will remove His glory from the temple. This means that He is separating Himself from His people and their behavior. Next comes the siege and capture of Jerusalem itself. Not much is going right for Judah at this point. The Consequences of Mistakes: Lessons from the Siege and Capture of Jerusalem Immediately following the judgments of Judah are the judgments of the nations that gloat over the destruction of Judah and the fall of the Israelites. Even though He allowed it to happen and even removed His glory, He still cared. One by one, at God’s prompting, Ezekiel tells how each of these other nations would fall. Prophesying Against the Nations: Reflecting on the Effect of Christian Behavior on Others So, what does that have to do with us? Some of the world gets to see authentic Christians, living out what they believe. Other Christians are invisible, they bear so little fruit that nobody even knows they are Christians. Then there is a third group. These are the Christians who either are loud about their faith or are obvious through their behavior, and then they make some big mistake. People see those mistakes, and it affects how they see Christians. Mahatma Gandhi reportedly went to visit a Christian church and was denied entrance because that church was for high-caste Indians and whites only. He is quoted as saying, “I’d be a Christian if not for the Christians,” because of that incident. People watch us in the very same way. And many people are driven from Christianity because of the behavior of Christians. I thought of this as I was reading Ezekiel 25-32. It is in these chapters that Ezekiel prophesies against the nations that gloat over the destruction of Judah and the fall of the Israelites. You see, I am firmly convinced that everything in the Bible is there for a reason. Paul, writing to Timothy, says that all scripture is “God-breathed.” And the reason is for us to learn from the scriptures and to grow. A Call for Self-Reflection: Chasing Away the Estranged Christians Through Actions The passages from Ezekiel left me thinking about all those people that we chase off in one way or another. God is a jealous God, in that He wants us. He has also shown a distaste for His people and, in connection, Him, for being mocked. So, what’s going to happen to all those people that we have chased off through our behavior? As a pastoral counselor, I have seen everyone from Wiccans to the most devout of Christians. Sadly, though, I estimate that eighty percent of the people that come to me are what I call “Estranged Christians.” These are people who either were in the church as children or spent some time in the church as adults. But in every case, something happened or was done that chased them away. We, the church, failed these people. Some of them still cling to Christianity, but most just don’t care.hat If the other nations were destroyed for mocking Israel when they fell, what does that say for those who mock Christians when we fall? Do we not bear some responsibility for that? The Power of Christian Witness: Behavior as a Reflection of Christ’s Love Our actions are a witness to everyone, whether we like it or not. Some will attribute failures to the people. Many others will attribute them to Christianity and, therefore, Christ. Yes, in my book “How to be a Christian in Today’s World: Shame or Fear of Failure vs. Living Confidently in God’s Love,” I make it clear that our behavior is a reflection of our closeness to Christ. But we still must be aware of our behavior and how it represents Christ.
Building Love Amidst Life’s Misadventures: Embracing Challenges and Fostering Resilient Relationships
Living the Fortunes of Misadventure: Embracing Love and Building a Lasting Relationship Introduction: In the face of numerous challenges and countless surgeries, my wife’s and my love story has unfolded in unexpected ways. Through misadventures, we have learned the true essence of love and chosen to build a strong and resilient relationship. Today, we share the sweetness and depth of our love, born from the trials we faced. The Fragility of Life and Strength of Love: Navigating Countless Surgeries and the Fear of Loss The profound impact on our perspective was undeniable as my wife underwent 35 surgeries. Each surgery increased the odds that I might go home alone. Our daughter, an EMT, expressed her concern, aware of the fragility of life. We understood the reality, but chose not to dwell in fear. Choosing Each Other: The Work of Love: Love Built on Deliberate Choices Our fairytale romance was not merely a result of falling in love, but rather a conscious decision to love each other. We recognized that love is an ongoing commitment that requires effort and dedication. It meant choosing to do the work of loving each other. Growing Together Through Challenges Our journey has been far from easy, but it has taught us invaluable lessons. We have grown together, facing our health struggles and surgeries as a team. Our shared experiences have strengthened our bond and deepened our understanding of one another. Finding Gratitude and Blessings in Life’s Misadventures Despite the trials, we have discovered a newfound appreciation for the blessings in our lives. We are grateful for our faith, the love that sustains us, and the realization that our misadventures have shaped us into who we are today. A Love Transformed: From Struggles to Strength: Transcending Fights and Significant Problems Over time, we have learned to navigate conflicts and disagreements with grace and understanding. Our commitment to open communication and mutual respect has helped us transcend the challenges we face. Appreciating the Blessings of Life and Love Today, we cherish every moment together and recognize the preciousness of life. We have come to appreciate the depth of our love and the gift of having each other by our side. Regaining Clarity and Deepening Affection Through the trials we endured, our love has become more profound and resilient. Our experiences have brought us closer, reigniting our affection and strengthening our connection. Seeking Help and Support: Encouragement to Seek Guidance in Building Love If you find yourself struggling to build a deep and lasting love, we encourage you to seek guidance and support. Don’t be afraid to reach out to relationship counselors or therapists who can provide valuable insights and tools for fostering a strong foundation. The Importance of Seeking Assistance Building a strong and lasting love requires intentional effort and a willingness to seek assistance when needed. Don’t hesitate to ask for help in navigating the complexities of relationships. Extending a Helping Hand If you’re in need of support or simply want to connect, we’re here for you. Feel free to reach out to us through this link, and we’ll be glad to chat and offer our perspective at no charge, whether we establish a formal counseling relationship or not. Conclusion: Our journey of misadventure has taught us valuable lessons about love and resilience. We have come to appreciate the fragility of life and the depth of our connection. We urge others struggling to build lasting love to seek help and guidance. Love is a deliberate choice, and with the right support and effort, you can create a love that withstands the tests of time and adversity.
When You Can’t Do: Embrace a New Perspective
When You Can’t Do In life, we often define ourselves by what we can do. Our abilities, accomplishments, and productivity become intertwined with our identity. But what happens when circumstances change, and we find ourselves unable to do what we’re accustomed to? It’s a challenging transition that many of us face at some point, whether due to health issues, family responsibilities, or the natural process of aging. Shifting Perspectives I know this struggle all too well. As a natural-born doer, I dedicated myself to providing for my family, working tirelessly and sacrificing my own well-being. However, at the age of 47, my body betrayed me, and I suddenly couldn’t do what I was used to anymore. The realization was disheartening, and I felt lost. During my journey of adapting to a new reality, I received a profound insight from my wife. She said, “You’re not disabled, you’re retired. Now you decide what you want to do.” It was a shift in perspective that changed everything. Instead of focusing on what I couldn’t do, I began asking myself, “What can I do?” Lessons from Isaiah In moments of doubt and frustration, I often turn to the words of the prophet Isaiah. While the context may be different, the message resonates deeply. Isaiah 30:15 reminds us that salvation and strength lie in repentance, rest, quietness, and trust. These ancient promises are still relevant today, meaning just as much to us today as they were intended to when they were first spoken to the Israelites. Learning from History Just as the Israelites failed to heed these words, we too can easily succumb to fear and doubt. Yet, we have the opportunity to learn from their mistakes and embrace a new perspective. When faced with limitations, whether temporary or long-term, we should not allow frustration to consume us. Instead, we should shift our focus, pray and ask ourselves, “What can I do now?” It is in these moments of surrender and acceptance that we discover unexpected rewards and profound peace. As I look back on the years since I became disabled, I realize that they have been the most rewarding and peaceful of my life. By letting go of what I couldn’t do and embracing what I could, I found new purpose, joy, and contentment. Embracing the Question: “What Can I Do Now?” So, if you find yourself in a similar situation, grappling with the frustration of not being able to do what you once could, I encourage you to adopt a new perspective. Release the attachment to what was and open yourself to the possibilities of what can be. Embrace the power of repentance, rest, quietness, and trust, allowing God’s strength to rejuvenate you. Remember, our value as individuals is not solely defined by our actions or achievements. It lies in our ability to adapt, grow, and find fulfillment even in the midst of change. Embrace the journey of discovering what you can do and allow it to lead you to a life filled with purpose, peace, and abundant blessings. Conclusion In the face of limitations and unexpected challenges, it is essential to embrace a new perspective. Rather than dwelling on what we can no longer do, let us shift our focus to what we can do in the present moment. By drawing inspiration from scriptural promises and learning from the mistakes of the past, we can find renewed purpose and joy in our journey. So, embrace the question, “What can I do now?” and trust that in the surrender and acceptance of our circumstances, we can discover unexpected rewards and profound peace. Let go of the expectations of the past and open yourself to the possibilities of the present. Remember, your worth is not defined by your abilities, but by your ability to adapt, grow, and find fulfillment in the midst of change. As always, if you need extra help with this or any other issue, I’m always available. Please go to my counseling page to contact me with your concerns.
Embracing Forgiveness and Living in the Spirit: Breaking Free from Regret
Introduction: Do you find yourself trapped in a cycle of self-blame and regret, haunted by past mistakes? It’s time to break free and embrace the forgiveness and abundant life that Christ offers. In this blog post, we will explore the assurance of forgiveness, the significance of Christ’s sacrifice, and the transformative power of living in the Spirit. Let’s discover how we can move from self-condemnation to rejoicing in the love and grace of our Savior. The Assurance of Forgiveness: No Condemnation in Christ Do you ever feel burdened by the weight of past mistakes, replaying those regretful moments in your mind? It’s a common struggle that many people face. But as believers, we have the assurance of forgiveness. In Romans 8:1, we are reminded that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. This powerful truth sets us free from the chains of guilt and self-blame. The Cleansing Power of Christ’s Sacrifice: Blameless and Spotless To fully grasp the magnitude of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, we turn to Ephesians 5. It reveals that Christ’s purpose in dying was to cleanse us and present us blameless and spotless before Himself. This cleansing is not just an external act but a deep transformation of our hearts and souls. It demonstrates the immeasurable love and grace of our Savior. Surrendering to God’s Bigness: Letting Go of Self-Blame Yet, despite the assurance of forgiveness and the cleansing power of Christ’s sacrifice, many of us still struggle to let go of our past and accept God’s forgiveness fully. We hold onto self-blame, feeling unworthy of His love and grace. But it’s important to realize that when we do this, we are making ourselves bigger than God. We must surrender to His bigness and trust in the completeness of His forgiveness. Living in the Spirit: The Path to Transformation Living in the Spirit is key to breaking free from the cycle of self-condemnation and regret. When we draw close to God in prayer and allow the Holy Spirit to guide us, we experience a transformation from within. We begin to see ourselves through God’s eyes, as beloved children who have been forgiven and redeemed. The Spirit empowers us to live a life that is pleasing to God, shaping us into better Christians. Rejoicing in Freedom: Embracing the Abundant Life It’s time to let go of the burden of regret and embrace the freedom that forgiveness brings. As we learn to live in the Spir (Rom 8:1-11) it, we open ourselves up to the joy and peace that come from walking in alignment with God’s will. Instead of striving in our own strength and feeling defeated, we can rejoice in the knowledge that we are forgiven and loved unconditionally. Conclusion: Dear friends, let us no longer allow guilt and self-blame to hold us captive. Embrace the forgiveness that Christ offers, and allow His love to transform your heart and mind. Through prayer and surrender to the Holy Spirit, let go of regret and step into the abundant life that God has prepared for you. Rejoice in the freedom found in His forgiveness, and experience the joy of living in the Spirit.
When God Doesn’t Heal: Reflecting on Miracles and Faith
Credit: http://catalogue.wellcomelibrary.org/record=b1091235 When God Doesn’t Heal: Reflecting on Miracles and Faith Introduction As told in my upcoming book “Blessed Brokenness: Seeing God’s Glory in the Ashes of Life,” I share a powerful story of literally being hands-on during a miracle. However, there are also times when God doesn’t heal, prompting deep questions and clouding human understanding. The Miraculous Healing We were missionaries at a drug and alcohol rehab farm when my wife injured her knee. The small rural emergency room couldn’t find anything wrong, but it was concluded that she likely had a torn ligament requiring surgery. A young student at the farm, fearing his troubled past would limit his future, asked if God would heal her. In faith, we prayed, and she walked out of church that morning without crutches. This miraculous healing had a profound impact on the young man’s life leading to a ministry calling instead of the streets. The Mystery of “Selective Healing” Despite our firm belief in miraculous healing, my wife and I have experienced disabilities while witnessing others being healed. It raises the question of why God heals some but not all. Andrew Womack’s teaching suggests that healing is already accomplished, waiting only for our acceptance. Robert Wimer’s article explores how a lack of faith, even from those around the person in need, can affect healing (robertwimer.com). Wimer uses the example of Jesus healing a man outside the wicked city of Bethsaida to question the possibility that the evilness of the city would inhibit healing, further adding to the complexity of the issue. At the end of the day, the best answer I can give as to why God heals some and not others is, “I don’t know.” The Lack of Answers Though I have no answer to the mystery of “selective healing”, I find peace in knowing that for my wife and I, our personal faith doesn’t depend on physical healing. While it would bring glory to God, our journey has shown that our faith has inspired others and possibly brought glory to Him even while we continue to live with disabilities. Embracing Vulnerability and God’s Strength In our lives, we have learned to embrace vulnerability and allow God to be strong in our weaknesses. Drawing inspiration from David’s acknowledgment in Psalm 139 that we cannot hide from God’s presence, we find solace and strength in His presence despite a lack of physical healing. Conclusion In conclusion, the experience of witnessing both miraculous healing and a lack of healing has deepened our understanding of faith, vulnerability, and the sovereignty of God. While we don’t have all the answers, we continue to trust in His plan and find peace, knowing that He uses our faith to inspire others regardless of our physical circumstances. If you want to talk with me about this issue, or others, formally or informally, please visit my counseling page for more information and to reach out to me. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn
Embracing Grace: Moving Beyond Christianese
Introduction: As my wife was watching her favorite “clean crime show,” I was sitting next to her, working on my laptop. Admittedly, I too enjoy the show and should have found someplace else to work. Nevertheless, I remained in the room, and a familiar conflict theme brought memories of our youth, prompting recollections of a song and then a quote by the lead singer. At the end of this mental rabbit trail, I found one concept – embracing grace. Unmasking “Christianese”: When guiding others in their faith, I often encourage them to shed what I call “Christianese.” These are well-worn sayings or verses that have lost their impact due to overuse. I challenge my counselees to articulate their faith in their own words, which frequently reveals a diminished conviction and confidence. The danger of Christianese lies in its potential to camouflage our genuine needs behind a façade. This perilous position often goes unnoticed, and I fear that a significant number of Christians unknowingly find themselves trapped there. Understanding Grace: Many denominations affirm the concept of being “saved by grace through faith.” But what does this truly mean? How many of us can articulate it in a way that is biblically sound, meaningful, and comprehensible? If you attempted to express it, you likely felt overwhelmed. And rightly so. Embracing the grace of God should never be taken lightly. I don’t mean that we must force its importance, but rather that the realization of its significance should permeate from our minds to our hearts. Romans 3:24 emphasizes our justification as a gift through God’s grace and the redemption found in Christ Jesus. The word that resonates with me here is “gift.” Like any gift, it is up to us how we respond. We can throw it out, place it on a forgotten shelf, or embrace it fully. Inviting Christ In: I refrain from asking someone to invite Christ into their heart. Revelation 3:20 (NASB95) states, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.” This verse reveals that we have the choice to open the door and welcome Him in. He is already seeking us. This truth should resonate not only with unbelievers but also with believers. Too often, we acknowledge grace within the church walls but allow the world to overpower us once we step outside. Drawing from personal experience, I can attest that a life centered on His love and grace, making it our primary focus, is a much more peaceful way to live than being focused on the worries of the world. Conclusion: To those who needed to read these words, I encourage you to meditate on them and embrace the joy of His glory. Allow His love and grace to permeate your life, transforming your perspective and guiding your steps. By avoiding losing His love and grace in Christianese and wholeheartedly embracing God’s them, we can experience the fullness of His presence and live in the radiance of His glory. If you struggle with your image in Christ or believing that His love and grace are for you, then I invite you to look at my book, How to be a Christian in Today’s World: Shame or Fear of Failure vs. Living Confidently in God’s Love. If you want further assistance, you can always visit my counseling page. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn
Embracing Life’s Moments: Living with Purpose and Gratitude
Introduction: Life is a wild journey, full of twists and turns we never see coming. How can we live embracing life’s moments, living with purpose and gratitude? I recently heard Tim McGraw’s song “Live Like You Were Dying,” and it got me thinking about what it truly means to live with purpose. So, join me on this blog post as we dive into the profound lessons hidden within this song and how we can apply them to our own lives. The Journey of Appreciation: Finding Joy in the Everyday Picture this: my beautiful bride and I, cruising down the road to Phoenix, with our favorite Chicago-style eatery in mind for a pit stop. These moments of togetherness remind us to slow down, appreciate the simple pleasures, and soak in the beauty of the everyday. Personal Playlists and Meaningful Reflections: Life’s Soundtracks Now, let’s talk about personal playlists. You know, those special mixes that make our hearts sing? Well, on our road trips, my wife graciously lets me take the wheel and play my favorite playlist. It’s a collection of songs that celebrate the people I love, rock-infused worship tunes that uplift my spirit, and those catchy melodies that bring a smile to my face. Each song holds memories and prompts me to reflect on the blessings that have shaped my life. Challenging Perspectives: Rethinking What It Means to Live Fully: Okay, so some parts of “Live Like You Were Dying” might seem a bit extravagant or out of reach for most of us. But here’s the thing: the heart of the song speaks volumes. It tells the story of a father battling cancer, realizing the urgency to truly live. It’s a call to be better partners, friends, and to let go of grudges. We redefine what it means to seize each day and make it count, no matter how big or small the action. Embracing Life’s Simple Joys: Finding Beauty in the Ordinary Living fully isn’t just about grand gestures or ticking off a bucket list. It’s about finding joy in the everyday moments. From the sweet melody of birdsong to the breathtaking view of the mountains from my window, my wife and I savor these simple blessings together. Whether it’s the vibrant blooms of a rose bush or the peaceful sight of her sleeping after a tough day, life’s beauty is all around us if we open our eyes to it. Gratitude for Surprises Life has a funny way of surprising us with unexpected blessings. It could be kind words from old friends or newfound connections that lift our spirits and inspire us. Even the unexpected feedback and reviews of my book have brought diverse perspectives that I never anticipated. These moments remind me of the profound impact our lives can have on others, and the importance of embracing them with gratitude. Lessons from Near-Death Experiences: Teaching How to Live Let me share a personal story. A few years ago, I had a cancer scare that made me confront the fragility of life. In that moment, I turned to God for guidance. His answer was clear: whether facing death or continuing the journey, I needed to teach my loved ones how to truly live. Even Paul didn’t have all the answers, but he invited others to follow Him AS HE FOLLOWED CHRIST. It was a weight off my shoulders, realizing that I didn’t need all the answers. Instead, I could rely on God’s grace and guidance to show the way. Embracing the Journey, Letting Go of the Past: Moving Forward with Faith There’s a passage in Philippians (3:12-17) that resonates deeply with me. It’s like being stuck on a cliff edge, clinging to a scraggly root. But just when it seems impossible to move forward, a hero appears and extends a helping hand. In that moment, we face a choice: Do we hold on to the past, clinging to that uncertain root, or do we take a leap of faith and grab hold of the outstretched hand of Christ? The truth is, we don’t have to have all the answers or have it all figured out. Like the apostle Paul in Philippians, we can acknowledge our imperfections and embrace the one who first embraced us—Christ. We can choose to let go of our past mistakes, regrets, and the burdens of comparison. Instead, we focus on the path ahead, trusting in God’s guidance and grace to lead us forward. As we journey through life, we’re bound to encounter other believers on similar paths. Instead of wasting energy on judgment or comparison, let’s choose to support and encourage one another. In the mind of Mike Warnke, imagine a long baptismal font, like a slip-and-slide, where as we roll down it, both the Holy Rollers and those who prefer sprinkling are satisfied. It’s a playful reminder that unity and love should be our focus, rather than divisive debates. Conclusion: In conclusion, life is an adventure meant to be cherished and embraced. Just as my beautiful bride lets me play my favorite playlist during our road trips, we have the opportunity to curate the soundtrack of our lives. “Live Like You Were Dying” serves as a reminder to live each day with intention, purpose, and gratitude. It’s not about extravagant experiences or crossing off a bucket list, but about being better spouses, and friends, and forgiving others as we embrace the beauty of life. So, let’s appreciate the little moments, find joy in life’s simple pleasures, and cherish the unexpected blessings along the way. Whether it’s the breathtaking view from our window, the comforting presence of loved ones, or the impact we have on others, every moment is an opportunity to make a difference. Let go of the past, grab hold of the outstretched hand of Christ, and embark on a journey filled with faith, love, and purpose. As Mike Warnke humorously reminds us, let’s enjoy the slip-and-slide of life, celebrating our unique journeys while extending love and grace to those around us.
How do We Live Out Our Faith?
I have an author colleague who believes in deeds being the key to salvation. He points to the story of the Sheep and the Goats in Matthew 25:31-46 . Unfortunately, this leaves out so much of the rest of scripture and we have occasional polite discussions about this. The real-life problem for most of us is that if we look at the scriptures, they are chock full of admonitions about what we should and shouldn’t do. And of course, no matter how hard we try, we fail. Sometimes this creates anxiety and feelings of failure. “Why can’t I be good enough?” This is something of an epidemic in Christianity! But that just isn’t what God wants for us! God wants us to draw closer to Him first! As we do, then we will find being “good Christians” comes more easily. My belief is that our behavior is rooted in our spiritual life, not the other way around. Learning how much God loves you and then abiding in Him will bring us closer to him and in turn better lives. Please join me in learning more and growing more through discipleship. We need to focus on the big picture of God’s love from Genesis on. If we can only see the big picture, then we will understand that the full theme of the Bible is: God desiring relationship with us. Through that, we can begin to walk out of self-doubt and shame. We can begin to love others because He first loved us. And in every way and every situation, peace is easier to find. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn
Why I Use Bible Gateway and How it Can Help You
I’ve recently joined the Bible Gateway Blogger Grid. It’s a network of Christian blogs that all follow a common statement of faith and share in promoting Christ in different areas of life. I’m also linking any scriptures that I mention to the Bible Gateway Site. What that enables you to do as the reader is view the passage from many different translations and if I only list a verse or two, you can easily click to read the whole chapter to get a better understanding of context. I encourage readers to not only do their own Bible reading but if I or anyone else for that matter tells you that the Bible says something, check us! I do not want you to learn from me, I want you to learn from God. I’m just as fallible as the next guy. Happy reading!
