God entrusts you to speak, to sacrifice, to crush serpents. He calls you to be true to your nature — the one he gave you — and play the man that you are. And that man is not timid, not unassertive, not feeble in the faith: “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong” (1 Corinthians 16:13).
Unless we are willing to examine all things carefully, we cannot hope to have any defense against reckless wandering faith. The desire for discernment is a desire born out of humility. It is a humility that acknowledges our own potential for self-deception—“the heart is more deceitful than all else and is desperately sick; who can understand it” (Jeremiah 17:9).
God’s command is simple: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him” (Matthew 17:5). But obedience to it? Far from simple, for we’re naturally drawn to whatever will itch our ears and suit our passions. We’re a rebellious people who’ve wandered and turned away from listening to the truth (see 2 Timothy 4:2-4).
God has not given us the platitudes of worldly optimists. He has given us firm handholds for hope in “His precious and magnificent promises” (2 Peter 1:4). And that should make us the most optimistic people of all.
Jesus commends another type of piety—a secret piety that will be rewarded by the Father. The contrast is stark. We can pursue the glory of the Father by humbling ourselves, or we can pursue our own glory by exalting ourselves before others. We simply cannot do both.
If God could only wait for us to make the first move toward him, there would be little hope for your rebel son or daughter. But God is free to step into any life, at any time, and that means there is always hope.
Here are 5 key passages from recent Christian content around the web, including one from an article on singing together and another passage from an article on Christmas. The Real Meaning of Christmas (Stephen Nichols, Ligonier Ministries) In a way, Joseph and Mary extend beyond themselves, beyond their particular place...
Therefore, brothers and sisters, be patient until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth and is patient with it until it receives the early and the late rains. (James 5:7) If there is one activity that almost every human being dislikes, it...
1.) Psalm 18:35 You have given me the shield of your salvation, and your right hand supported me, and your gentleness made me great. David had many enemies. The Lord not only protected him but also gave him victory over them. Due to this, David became a great man. But...
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