It is interesting to try to figure out where certain sayings and phrases originated. According to multiple sources, the famous proverb, “Honesty is the best policy,” was first stated by Sir Edwin Sandys in 1599. Sir Edwin Sandys was (get this!) an English politician and one of the founders of the first English settlements in Jamestown, Virginia. Kind of ironic (don’t you…

Have you ever heard a recording of your voice (maybe on a voicemail or a video) and thought, “That’s not how I sound…is it? Is that really how I sound to other people?” In our minds (and in our ears), we “hear ourselves” one way, but hearing a recording might sound more “pitchy” or nasal or strained or “throaty.” It can make…

Psalm 124 begins with these words, “If it had not been the Lord who was on our side” (Psa. 124:1). How bad would it have been? “If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when men rose up against us, then they would have swallowed us alive…then the waters would have overwhelmed us” (124:2-4). Have you ever felt…

It can be easy to look at the Bible as only “a bunch of do’s and don’ts,” with God shaking His finger and telling us what to do and what we can’t do. However, is that the right approach? In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses was re-establishing God’s covenant with second-generation Israelites. Chapter 6 is a microcosm of the rest of the…

We live in a time when many folks have placed a high priority on physical fitness. How many do you know who have a “gym membership” or maybe a “home gym“? In some school systems, they had taken “gym class” out of the schedule, but now they’re bringing it back. Of course, in schools, “gym class” is often held in the gymnasium.…

“Have you a heart that’s weary, tending a load of care?” Life presents so many challenges to us-physically, emotionally, relationally, spiritually. Who doesn’t have a heart weighed down? “Are you a soul that’s seeking rest from the burden you bear?” When you’re carrying a heavy load, just about the only thing you can do is think about putting it down and resting!…

The words are so simple and so non-threatening, allowing the hearer the opportunity to observe and evaluate on his/her own. When two disciples asked Jesus where He was staying, He simply replied, “Come and see” (John 1:37-39). Later, when Jesus asked where Lazarus’ body had been laid after he died, the simple reply was, “Come and see” (John 11:34). Who among us…

Have a look around! Hey kids, prayer is not allowed in schools anymore! Hey kids, now you’re being taught about Darwin and evolution instead of God and creation! Hey kids, no more Bibles in school anymore either! Hey kids, take “under God” out of the pledge you say every morning! Hey  kids, you’re going to be taught about having two dads or…