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Spiritual Vision Impairment
Many of our spiritual weaknesses may be compared to physical infirmities. The Scriptures often describe our spiritual ills by using such comparisons. One of the more vivid illustrations is that of vision impairment—the inability to see clearly. By seeing with the eyes of faith, we are led by God along the right paths. “Open my Continue reading
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The Firm Foundation
Years ago when we lived in Texas, the church became involved in a building program. For months when I would go to my study, my concentration would be distracted by the construction work going on just outside my office window. It was natural to let the thoughts settle on the building metaphors of the Bible. Continue reading
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The Herald of Good News
“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns’” (Isaiah 52:7). The announcement of good news is always welcome, but especially in times of evil and distress. Such was the case Continue reading
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The Impact of a Good Life
There are great advantages in striving to live a good life—a life whose character is defined by our Creator. A good life is a significant commodity in society and in the church. Its impact on ourselves, our families, and others should never be underestimated. Living a good life elevates the quality of life. “That it Continue reading
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Timothy’s Needs
“And for this reason I remind you to kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, or of Continue reading
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Timothy’s Character
It was apparently Timothy’s character and reputation that first attracted Paul to him. The text in Acts 16 tells us that Timothy was “well spoken of by the brethren who were in Lystra and Iconium” and for this reason Paul decided “he wanted this man to go with him” as a companion and fellow-worker (Acts Continue reading
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Timothy’s Advantages
“I thank God, whom I serve with a clear conscience the way my forefathers did, as I constantly remember you in my prayers night and day, longing to see you, even as I recall your tears, so that I may be filled with joy. For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which Continue reading
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Why Paul’s Preaching Was Not in Vain
For some reason, Paul wrote defensively in 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12. Perhaps there were some opponents in Thessalonica who had misrepresented him. Possibly the apostle was just defending himself and other preachers, Silvanus, Timothy and others, in order to distinguish between themselves and charlatans. Paul wanted the brethren who read his letter to know that his Continue reading
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To the Glory of God
The great German musical composer Johann Sebastian Bach said, “All music should have no other end and aim than the glory of God and the soul’s refreshment; where this is not remembered there is no real music but only a devilish hub-bub.” Bach always headed his compositions: “J.J.” “Jesus Juva” which means “Jesus help me.” Continue reading
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Watch Your Steps
“Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. To draw near to listen is better than to offer the sacrifice of fools, for they do not know that they are doing evil. Be not rash with your mouth, nor let your heart be hasty to utter a word before God, for God Continue reading
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The Vanity of the Love of Wealth
“He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves wealth with his income; this also is vanity” (Ecclesiastes 5:10). If there is one thing that most people want from life, it is security. Candidates run for public office with their proposed programs for social security. Offers of employment and opportunities Continue reading
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The Illusion of the “Good Old Days”
“Surely oppression drives the wise into madness, and a bribe corrupts the heart. Better is the end of a thing than its beginning, and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit. Be not quick in your spirit to become angry, for anger lodges in the heart of fools. Say not, ‘Why Continue reading
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