Colossians 1:3-5 Our future is heaven

When I read these verses, I drew a straight line to represent our ascent and growth in faith and hope when we join in God’s purpose and are filled with his love. But circumstances, sins, doubts, pain–the reality of life–make the line full of hills we struggle up and valleys we careen down into despite… Read More

Psalm 1:4-5 Purposeful life

I have a purpose, a direction, a raison d’etre. I need to listen to God daily, continue in strong relationship with him, and choose to follow where he leads.          Psalm 1:4-5 (The Message) You’re not at all like the wicked, who are mere windblown dust— Without defense in court, unfit company for… Read More

Passing through the fire

I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Philippians… Read More

This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine. part 4

“You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on… Read More

Philippians 4:11-14 What does it take?

Do my circumstances determine my level of contentment? Or can I say, with Paul, that where I am, what I have, my state of health, … none of that really matters because God is with me? I can be on the mountain top or deep in the mucky shadows; I can experience feast or famine;… Read More