December 15th was officially Stacey’s last day as a teacher. Most of her 35-year career was spent in special education helping struggling students to succeed. For Stacey, this job was a calling as much as it was a career. I’ve seen evidence of this in the care she gave her[...]

The New Testament describes what life should look like for followers of Jesus Christ. But I hear more and more believers talking about that life as if it’s a lofty goal rather than how they actually strive to live. I think that’s dangerous. So how do you know if you’re[...]

“Because of the littleness of your faith” Matthew 17:20   Have you ever wondered why you don’t have more strength or power in your spiritual life? Jesus’ disciples certainly did. After they failed to deliver a boy from demon possession they asked Jesus, “Why could we not drive it out?”[...]

“So Sarai said to Abram, ‘Now behold, the Lord has prevented me from bearing children. Please go in to my maid; perhaps I will obtain children through her.’ And Abram listened to the voice of Sarai.” Genesis 16:2   Do the voices you listen to represent godly interests or good intentions? The first is a[...]

“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?’ Then I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’” Isaiah 6:8   Few Christians are willing to write God a blank check, as Isaiah did. When God speaks, we often weigh the[...]

“She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21   Christians around the world celebrate the birth of Jesus every Christmas. But we can get so caught up in Christmastime activities that we forget exactly what we’re celebrating. Jesus left[...]

“Mary said to the angel, ‘How can this be, since I am a virgin?’” Luke 1:34   Mary’s question was motivated by reason and rationale, not doubt. Who wouldn’t ask about the practical workings of a virgin giving birth? When you think about it, many people approach salvation in a similar way. You[...]

The Virgin Birth of Jesus is often taken for granted in Christian circles. Yet, there have always been doubters. We certainly live in a time when more and more people are skeptical of Christianity; at least certain parts of it. But that’s the thing—you can’t pick and choose which things[...]

“in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18   Most of us would admit that we struggle with giving thanks in everything. That’s why thankfulness in the midst of adversity is a sign of spiritual maturity. It’s not about being thankful for[...]