In Luke 12, Jesus shares a parable and then gives this vital principle: “To whom much is given, much is required” (Luke 12:48). Note the use of the word much. This verse says much about how much is required of us who are the recipients of much. We are all the recipients of much! The life we enjoy, the abilities we possess, and even the opportunities we have to give are gracious gifts from heaven. ...  Read More

It is likely that there will come a time in our lives when we will question why certain adverse things have happened to us. This occurs even to the most devout among us. We may or may not ever receive an answer for some dreadful trial that comes our way. However, God may very well remind us “…in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose”...  Read More

“But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the righteousness for which we hope” (Galatians 5:5).You know how important the spiritual quality of hope is in human life but, at times, you will find yourself in the position of even having to wait for hope to come. It’s true! Life can drive us to a place of such desperation that we cannot even muster up hope for our situation. We have to look to...  Read More

Awhile back, I counseled with a woman in my office, and as she left the church pastoral office area, she seemed confused as to which way to go. I asked if she knew how to get out. She said, “I think I know—but last week I was here and I got so embarrassed because I couldn’t figure out how to get out of the church.”It occurred to me that many people have not figured out how to get out of the church...  Read More

In the course of our Sunday morning Colossians series, we have come to a verse that shares with us an admonition regarding work. It is this:“Whatever you do, do it heartily as unto the Lord” (Colossians 3:23).This begs the question: How much time do you spend at work in a day, week, or month? How much time will you spend at work over a lifetime? If so much of your time over a lifetime will be spen...  Read More

“In everything give thanks” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).I suppose the most challenging part of this verse from the apostle Paul is found in the words, “In everything.”  This suggests even in the worst of things there are some things for which we should be thankful. This means, even in bad things, we are to look for a “Silver Lining” – some evidence of God’s blessings.We may be tempted to protest these ...  Read More