For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment (James 2:13, NASB). Mercy can be simply summed up as “God withholds what we deserve.” We all break God’s law, and as Paul writes, “The wages of sin is death.” Fortunately, Paul also writes, “But the free gift of God is eternal life […]
Temporary Protected Status Read More »
The plowers plowed upon my back; They lengthened their furrows (Psalm 129:3, NASB1995). The image used in Psalm 129 to illustrate suffering is plowing. Many of us know little of farming techniques, but the agrarian society of Israel at the time of Psalm 129 would understand two things about plowing: it disturbed the soil so
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To equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ (Ephesians 4:12-13, ESV). I did play the numbers game as a pastor:
A Thriving Church (and Pastor) Read More »
If you love me, you will keep my commandments (John 14:15, ESV). We follow what we love. It’s easy to say “yes” to the things that we enjoy and “no” to what we don’t like. The New Testament teaches relational holiness or becoming so in love with Jesus that it’s easy to keep His commands. Many
Relational Holiness Read More »
Every reader of the Bible knows David, and a quick AI check reveals that he is mentioned 970 times in the Bible. David’s rise from shepherd boy to King of a united Israel is overshadowed by God’s ultimate promise to him… Your house [David’s] and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me. Your
Joab: Biblical Hero of Great Deeds and Misdeeds Read More »
There’s a selfish element to writing Interruptions, as I enjoy writing this blog. But there’s another reason, found in 1 Peter 3:15 … Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, but with gentleness and respect (NASB). The Greek for “defense”
Apologetics: Defending the Faith or Our Opinions? Read More »
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful (2 Timothy 4:7, NLT). Last week I celebrated my 73rd birthday. It was an unusual time of introspection for me as I’ve just blown through my 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, and the first years of my 70s, believing
O Lord, rescue me from evil people. Protect me from those who are violent (Psalm 140:1, NLT). I call Psalm 140 the “what to do with difficult co-workers” psalm. It also helps with frustrating people at school and family reunions! In Psalm 140, David (already secretly anointed as king) serves King Saul’s household as a musician,
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Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you (1 Thessalonians 5:18, ESV). January 3oth is my birthday! An important day — for me, at least. It’s very snowy (a level three emergency) and I’m stuck at home as I write this blog a few days before
January 30th ~ An Important Day! Read More »
Jesus turned water into wine, as John commented in his Gospel, “This, the first of His signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee and manifested his glory. And His disciples believed Him (John 2:11, ESV). Driving at 200 yards from an intersection, a sign appeared: “Dangerous Intersection Ahead.” Then, 100 yards farther, “Slow Down Danger
The Warning of Biblical Signs Read More »