The wisdom of God has much to tell us about controlling our reactions toward others and controlling our tempers. Those of us who struggle with that have read many of the passages in Scripture on this subject, but we would do well to go over them again and even memorize some.  Proverbs 19:11 is one such text. “The discretion of a man…

When Jacob died, “he drew his feet up into the bed and breathed his last” (Gen. 49:33). He died in a place of comfort and peace. When Moses died, the Lord “buried him” (Deut. 34:5-6). He died in the presence and peace of the Lord. But Jesus enjoyed no such blessings!   In order to kill Jesus, “they brought Him to the place…

Most pet dogs crave human interaction and human touch. They love to be scratched behind their ears or to get a good belly rub. But, have you ever met a dog who loved for a stranger to grab both of his ears in a firm grip and fiercely twist his head about? Of course not! And, if a stranger was so daring…

Abraham was a man of great faith. He trusted, without wavering, in the promises of God (Rom. 4:20-21). Yet, Abraham accepted that he would never see the fullness of God’s promises on this earth. He did not put his hope on this earth. He, along with the other patriarchs, “confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth” (Heb. 11:13). Knowing…

When was the last time that you LOOKED FORWARD to going to midweek Bible study on Wednesday night? Hopefully that’s every week! But, do you truly “look forward” to it? Years ago, Wednesday night services were called “Prayer Meetings.” Gradually that changed to be called “Bible Study” or “Midweek Services.” But, is there still an emphasis on prayer? One Wednesday morning recently,…

How many folks (especially in the church) do you know who are older than you? Any? Have you noticed that sometimes “older” individuals are not quite as “sharp” as they “used to be”? As a result, sometimes they are disregarded, set aside, and even disrespected. We need to be very careful in how we treat those who are “older.” The New Testament…

So, how are you doing? “Better than I deserve!” Have you known anyone who responded in that way? For many such folks, it really didn’t matter what kind of day they were having. They could have had a rough morning and may have even been carrying a heavy burden of some kind. Yet, they really meant it–“Better than I deserve!” These kind…

Is that you? Are you “coming to worship” but “enjoying it less”? Or, have you stopped coming because you just “weren’t enjoying it” or maybe you’re not coming as much? Over the years, there have been others in your same position. Maybe it’s the preacher who “just isn’t doing it for me anymore.” Maybe it’s the songs that “we just keep singing…