Without hope, there is only despair

““What strength do I have, that I should hope? And what is my end, that I should prolong my life? Is my strength the strength of stones? Or is my flesh bronze?” (Job 6:11-12)

Ever feel like that?  C’mon, now, even you mature Christians, fess up if you have.  It’s books like Job that convince [...]

2012: I resolve to pray more often

Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, [Jesus] went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed. (Mark 1:3-5)

This is the last devotional of my Resolutions series. By now, if you have resolved to 1) get in shape, 2) spend more time with friends and family, and, [...]

Advent Week 2: We’re Waiting for…the Lamb.

Now this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?”

He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.”

And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?”

He said, “I am not.”

“Are you the Prophet?”

And he [...]

Advent Week 1: We’re Waiting…for the Messiah

Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. (Isaiah 7:14, KJV)

God gave Isaiah a message to the people of Israel.   Something miraculous would happen.  A young woman, a virgin, would become pregnant and give birth.  And this child [...]

Seldom is heard an encouraging word? Hope not.

Therefore if there is any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy,  fulfill my joy by being like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let [...]