That warning in Matthew 7:1 reminds us that we are not to make distinctions among the people we interact with. James 2:1-4 puts it this way: “My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor…
Dear Abba, Thank you for the gift of music and singing, which gives us another way to celebrate and praise You for all the wonderful things you do for us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Benjamin Franklin once said: “Those who would give up essential liberty, to purchase a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety.” That quote often comes up in the context of new technology and concerns about government surveillance. But it fits many other situations as well. We Americans particularly value personal freedom. We seem to think that freedom…
The 2013 Harvard Business Review notes that fear and uncertainty are the major obstacles to business model innovation. Fear of failure so often prevents us from taking risks that might lead to exciting new outcomes… So, if we’re already making many mistakes, why not risk something that could potentially make a positive difference? Get Smart,…
Prayer Seed: Dear Abba, Please help all the parts of our church body work together, as one, to serve You. Show us what function you want us to do so we can use the talents You have given us for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
A defendant in a lawsuit involving large sums of money was talking to his lawyer. “If I lose this case, I’ll be ruined.” “It’s in the judge’s hands now,” said the lawyer. “Would it help if I sent the judge a box of cigars?” “Oh no! This judge is a stickler for ethical behavior. A…
An “oxymoron” is a word or expression that contradicts itself. In the 1400s, the word “priority” came into the English language. It meant the very first and most important thing and was singular. It wasn’t until the 1900s that people began to pluralize this word and speak of “priorities.” Rather than having one priority or…
Prayer Seed: Dear Abba, Please show me what I need to change in my life so that I can show Your love to the people around me. Thank you for giving me the strength and wisdom that I need to walk in love today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Dear Abba, God, and Lord of all, thank you for revealing to me Your readiness to be generous. This is who you are. Help me to see your grace and abundance and blessing in everything today. Amen!
We are all aware of the pervasive bombardment of us all with rapidly changing stimulation. The images and sounds that constantly invade our personal space have some people worried that it causes us to be unable to concentrate on anything for more than a few minutes at a time. During my teacher education and periodically…