In true John MacArthur style, The Truth About the Lordship of Christ offers a straightforward lesson on what it means to call Jesus "Lord" and an elaboration on His awesome character. As Christ-followers, Christians are daily being molded and formed to be more like Him. John MacArthur offers a concise look at what it means to be a follower of Jesus--that it calls for us to submit to Him not once but daily.
This is an easy read, written in plain, understandable language that is appealing to a wide spectrum of audiences.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Book Review: "Healing Hearts"
In true Beth Wiseman fashion, "Healing Hearts" delivers a trio of excellent novellas that capture your attention and wisk you away to simpler times. Hope and forgiveness are the main themes that run throughout each story as the main characters are challenged both physically, spiritually and emotionally. Personally, I love when a good story has a strong Christian undercurrent, as these three stories all have in common. I recommend this book to anyone who wants a heartfelt book to read.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Book Review: "Plain Pursuit"
In the tradition of the other "Plain" books she has written, Beth Wiseman delivers an excellent read with the strong message of the importance of faith in Christ, threaded throughout the work. Like other books that focus on the Amish way of life, Wiseman builds solid characters and places them in interesting plot situations. I would suggest this book to friends and family, as well as Wiseman's other books in the "Plain" series.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Book Review: From the Library of A.W. Tozer: Selections from Writers Who Influenced His Spiritual Journey
Who inspired the spiritual and ministry life of well-known A.W. Tozer? "From the Library of A.W. Tozer" by James Stuart Bell offers a glimpse into the authors, teachers, evangelists and friends who inspired Tozer to become the Christian he became. Varied selections from Christian scholors of the past such as Anselm and Augustine to more contemporty Christians, such as D.L. Moody and Charles Spurgeon are offered in this book. Readers will not only peer into the lives of the figures who inspired Tozer, but will walk away inspired themselves.
Book Review: Levi's Will
Levi's Will is a modern-day Prodigal Son story with an Amish twist. Set in picturesque Holmes County in Ohio, the story paints the picture of the strained relationship between an Old Order Amishman--Levi--and the son who left his roots, only to return years later--Will. Author W. Dale Cramer penned excellent character sketches, not only of the main character, but the colorful array of people who create the Amish community in which they live. A tale of faith in God and the power of forgiveness, Levi's Will proves a good read.
Book Review: A Promise for Spring
Kim Vogel Sawyer's "A Promise of Spring" is a love story and adventure rolled into one. This well-written tale tells of Emmaline Bradford, born and raised in England, who waits for her beloved to send for her in America. Time passes as she waits and finally, Geoffrey Garrett sends word that she can make the journey to the United States. Both anxious and excited, each person is stunned at how the other person has changed during their time apart. Sawyer does an excellent job of keeping the reader interested as these characters try to reconnect.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Book Review: Living with Confidence in a Choatic World
Dr. David Jeremiah delivers a message of hope in his newest book "Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World"--a follow-up to his best-selling book "What in the World is Going On?" Directed toward the Christian community, Dr. Jeremiah offers ways that Christians can live for Christ in a secular world which is pitted against Christianity. Specifically, Dr. Jeremiah presents 10 ways Christians can face the tumultuous world. He instructs us to:
Stay Calm--that no matter what happens around us, we worship the one, true God Who can calm any storm.
Stay Compassionate--don't hate or despise those who don't understand the truth; pray for them instead that their blinders would come off and that they would see the truth.
Stay Constructive--regardless of the ways of this world, focus on work you can do for the Kingdom--the only work that truly counts!
Stay Challenged--live an exceptional life that challenges you and initiates growth in your walk with Christ.
Stay Connected--foster relationships with others in your church to revive your mission on Earth as a Christian.
Stay Centered--Keep Christ at the center of your life to know that you are walking the correct path.
Stay Confident--We know Who wins in the end!! This offers us hope in a fallen world.
Stay Consistent--Don't compromise your Christian values in the face of a secular world--cling to your foundation in Jesus Christ!
Stay Committed--Hold tight to strong convictions and be a person of integrity in your Christian walk as you wait for Christ's return.
Stay Convinced--Be ready for the return of Christ; live life with urgency.
"Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World" is written in an easy-to-read, conversational tone that any Christian can understand. The message is clear: keep your eyes on Jesus Christ and His return and live for Him!
Stay Calm--that no matter what happens around us, we worship the one, true God Who can calm any storm.
Stay Compassionate--don't hate or despise those who don't understand the truth; pray for them instead that their blinders would come off and that they would see the truth.
Stay Constructive--regardless of the ways of this world, focus on work you can do for the Kingdom--the only work that truly counts!
Stay Challenged--live an exceptional life that challenges you and initiates growth in your walk with Christ.
Stay Connected--foster relationships with others in your church to revive your mission on Earth as a Christian.
Stay Centered--Keep Christ at the center of your life to know that you are walking the correct path.
Stay Confident--We know Who wins in the end!! This offers us hope in a fallen world.
Stay Consistent--Don't compromise your Christian values in the face of a secular world--cling to your foundation in Jesus Christ!
Stay Committed--Hold tight to strong convictions and be a person of integrity in your Christian walk as you wait for Christ's return.
Stay Convinced--Be ready for the return of Christ; live life with urgency.
"Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World" is written in an easy-to-read, conversational tone that any Christian can understand. The message is clear: keep your eyes on Jesus Christ and His return and live for Him!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Book Review: "Creation and the Second Coming"
Dr. Henry Morris, who was an esteemed expert and author on creationism, connected the facts of creation from Genesis with the prophecies that point to the second coming of Christ in his book "Creation and the Second Coming." Dr. Morris highlights the importance of looking at scripture as a whole in order to more fully grasp and appreciate the events that are leading to Christ's return.
Like other doctrinally-sound books on end times prophecy, Dr. Morris explained the specific events that are to happen before the triumphal return of Christ. Unlike the aforementioned types of books, Dr. Morris linked these prophetic truths to the very beginning of creation and explains that God has a plan that was put into motion at the very beginning of time.
I found "Creation and the Second Coming" not only an insanely-interesting read, but an important book to pass on to other Christians. Prophecy makes more sense when understood within the context of God's grand scheme. It's both refreshing and reassuring!
Like other doctrinally-sound books on end times prophecy, Dr. Morris explained the specific events that are to happen before the triumphal return of Christ. Unlike the aforementioned types of books, Dr. Morris linked these prophetic truths to the very beginning of creation and explains that God has a plan that was put into motion at the very beginning of time.
I found "Creation and the Second Coming" not only an insanely-interesting read, but an important book to pass on to other Christians. Prophecy makes more sense when understood within the context of God's grand scheme. It's both refreshing and reassuring!
Book Review: "The Beginning of the World: A Scientific Study of Genesis 1-11"
Dr. Henry Morris, who was a fervent champion of creationism and revered author, outdid himself with his book "The Beginning of the World: A Scientific Study of Genesis 1-11." The book challenges modern science and those who seek to change scripture to fit theory.
In 13 chapters, Dr. Morris examined Genesis 1-11 to showcase the truths of biblical creationism while simultaneously exposing the hypocrisy of highly regarded scientific theories--specifically the Theory of Evolution. At the end of each chapter, appropriate study questions are posed to the reader which help to solidify the truths of that particular chapter.
Written in an easy-to-understand way, I would suggest "The Beginning of the World" to any young adult or older adult who wishes to learn more about those vital first chapters of Genesis as a way to counter the theories society so readily accepts as truths.
In 13 chapters, Dr. Morris examined Genesis 1-11 to showcase the truths of biblical creationism while simultaneously exposing the hypocrisy of highly regarded scientific theories--specifically the Theory of Evolution. At the end of each chapter, appropriate study questions are posed to the reader which help to solidify the truths of that particular chapter.
Written in an easy-to-understand way, I would suggest "The Beginning of the World" to any young adult or older adult who wishes to learn more about those vital first chapters of Genesis as a way to counter the theories society so readily accepts as truths.
Book Review: "D Is For Dinosaur: A Rhyme Book and More"
Ken and Mally Ham, authors of "D Is For Dinosaurs" have written a wonderful book useful for parents or teachers who want to instruct children about the biblical basis for dinosaurs. A hardbound book with engaging illustrations, "D Is For Dinosaurs" uses the alphabet as a way to teach truths about the origins of the dinosaurs from a Christian perspective.
The book is cleverly broken up into sections that attract the attention of any age. The first part of the book goes through the alphabet to demonstrate basic truths about dinosaurs and creation, paired with bright, attractive illustrations. The second part of the book mimics the first part, but includes useful and insightful notes for teachers and parents that point to scripture as a basis for the idea on a specific page. The Ham's also offer ideas for activities parents and teachers can use to engage children further. The illustrations in the second part of the book are left blank for smaller children to color!
My small children enjoy looking through and using "D Is For Dinosaur" and I would recommend this book to any parent or teacher who wishes to teach these biblical truths to the children they know.
The book is cleverly broken up into sections that attract the attention of any age. The first part of the book goes through the alphabet to demonstrate basic truths about dinosaurs and creation, paired with bright, attractive illustrations. The second part of the book mimics the first part, but includes useful and insightful notes for teachers and parents that point to scripture as a basis for the idea on a specific page. The Ham's also offer ideas for activities parents and teachers can use to engage children further. The illustrations in the second part of the book are left blank for smaller children to color!
My small children enjoy looking through and using "D Is For Dinosaur" and I would recommend this book to any parent or teacher who wishes to teach these biblical truths to the children they know.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Book Review: "True For You But Not For Me"
Paul Copan presents several strategies for Christians to share the message of the Gospel with confidence in his work "True For You But Not For Me." Broken into chapters that answer specific objections to the tenets of Christianity, Copan delves deeply into Christian doctrine to offer Christians solid answers based on biblical truth.
I appreciate the way Copan presents the facts in each chapter and includes a summary of bullet points that sum up the main points of the chapter. More importantly, Copan relies on and provides Scripture references throughout the book which provides Biblical proof for his points.
I recommend Paul Copan's insightful book "True For You But Not For Me" as necessary reading for Christians of all ages. The book offers solid answers to the skeptics who challenge the truths of Christianity.
I appreciate the way Copan presents the facts in each chapter and includes a summary of bullet points that sum up the main points of the chapter. More importantly, Copan relies on and provides Scripture references throughout the book which provides Biblical proof for his points.
I recommend Paul Copan's insightful book "True For You But Not For Me" as necessary reading for Christians of all ages. The book offers solid answers to the skeptics who challenge the truths of Christianity.
Book Review: "Religions of the Stars"
Author Richard Abanes delves into the different beliefs of the mega-stars of today in his work "Religions of the Stars." A Christian, Abanes compares the core values of religions such as Scientology, Buddhism, Mormonism and the occult to Christianity to illustrate the short-comings of non-Christian belief systems.
The chapters focus on one form of religion at a time and Abanes offers an in depth explanation of the core beliefs of each religion and the names of the stars who follow the specific set of beliefs. An eye-opening book, "Religions of the Stars" is a well-documented work written in an easy-to-read conversational style.
For a well-rounded education on the popular religions today and how they fall short when compared to the truths of Christianity, I highly suggest "Religions of the Stars" as an informative, entertaining read.
The chapters focus on one form of religion at a time and Abanes offers an in depth explanation of the core beliefs of each religion and the names of the stars who follow the specific set of beliefs. An eye-opening book, "Religions of the Stars" is a well-documented work written in an easy-to-read conversational style.
For a well-rounded education on the popular religions today and how they fall short when compared to the truths of Christianity, I highly suggest "Religions of the Stars" as an informative, entertaining read.
Book Review: "The Chronology of the Old Testament"
Dr. Floyd Nolen Jones presents a well-documented and detailed timeline of OT events in his work "The Chronology of the Old Testament." A proponent of the absolute validity of the Bible, Jones uses the archaeological records of the Egyptians, Assyrians and other ancient superpowers to illustrate the truths of the Biblical timeline.
The beginning of the book establishes the foundation for the Old Testament chronology that Jones presents. He bases his chronological findings on the accuracy of Hebrew text and the historic records of well-documented ancient civilizations that co-existed at the time the Hebrew text was written. Jones then presents 6 charts that focus on subjects such as the generations of of the Bible up to Jesus, the pharaohs documented in the OT and a detailed chronology of David. A CD is included with the book that offers the charts in a large format. Appendices at the end of the book offer a valuable reference for important dates in the Old Testament and the different calendar years of the Bible.
"The Chronology of the Old Testament" presents well-documented, detailed information that supports a solid and valid chronology as presented in the Bible.
The beginning of the book establishes the foundation for the Old Testament chronology that Jones presents. He bases his chronological findings on the accuracy of Hebrew text and the historic records of well-documented ancient civilizations that co-existed at the time the Hebrew text was written. Jones then presents 6 charts that focus on subjects such as the generations of of the Bible up to Jesus, the pharaohs documented in the OT and a detailed chronology of David. A CD is included with the book that offers the charts in a large format. Appendices at the end of the book offer a valuable reference for important dates in the Old Testament and the different calendar years of the Bible.
"The Chronology of the Old Testament" presents well-documented, detailed information that supports a solid and valid chronology as presented in the Bible.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Book Review: "Unwrapping the Pharaohs"
Co-authors John Ashton and David Down present ancient Egypt as it has never been seen before in their collaboration "Unwrapping the Pharaohs: How Egyptian Archeology Confirms the Biblical Timeline." Included with the book is an interesting 86-minute DVD titled "Digging Up the Past."
Within the first few pages, two maps are offered; one that depicts major ancient Egyptian cities and pyramid placement in the days of the Pharaohs and also a modern-day map of Egypt for comparison. The introduction to the book follows and this section captures the essence of the point of the work: to use factual evidence from the oldest continuous civilization to corroborate Biblical fact. Using an easy-to-understand conversational tone, Ashton and Down reach a wide audience with interesting facts and wonderful color photographs.
Organized in chronological chapters, the authors first look at the pyramids and mummies that fascinate people of all ages. The book continues through the dynasties of the pharaohs and ends with the chapter "The Pharaohs of the Bible" which names some of the unnamed Egyptian pharaohs and dignitaries mentioned in the Old Testament.
Dynamic full-color pictures and writing style aside, "Unwrapping the Pharaohs" is a well-documented book that links the stories of the Old Testament to the facts preserved on Ancient Egyptian artifacts. It further solidifies that the Bible is a viable source of truth.
Within the first few pages, two maps are offered; one that depicts major ancient Egyptian cities and pyramid placement in the days of the Pharaohs and also a modern-day map of Egypt for comparison. The introduction to the book follows and this section captures the essence of the point of the work: to use factual evidence from the oldest continuous civilization to corroborate Biblical fact. Using an easy-to-understand conversational tone, Ashton and Down reach a wide audience with interesting facts and wonderful color photographs.
Organized in chronological chapters, the authors first look at the pyramids and mummies that fascinate people of all ages. The book continues through the dynasties of the pharaohs and ends with the chapter "The Pharaohs of the Bible" which names some of the unnamed Egyptian pharaohs and dignitaries mentioned in the Old Testament.
Dynamic full-color pictures and writing style aside, "Unwrapping the Pharaohs" is a well-documented book that links the stories of the Old Testament to the facts preserved on Ancient Egyptian artifacts. It further solidifies that the Bible is a viable source of truth.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
"Yesterday, Today and Forever"--a book review
Maria von Trapp, made famous in the movie "The Sound of Music" which chronicled her escape from Nazism and her well-known musical family, shares a more spiritual side of her life in the book "Yesterday, Today and Forever." In it, von Trapp chronicles how she and her family grew closer to the Lord as they learned more about His background. In essence, she incorporates history with spirituality to come to a better understanding of Jesus.
With her family and close friends, von Trapp delves into the history of Jewish customs in Jesus' time and how the geographic region looked in that day to conjure up a probable picture of what life was like for Jesus, Mary and Joseph. Like an experienced storyteller, von Trapp recounts what travelling may have been like for Mary and Joseph on that cold night when God humbled Himself and came into this world.
I can appreciate the use of Scripture within the text of "Yesterday, Today and Forever" and I wish von Trapp would have relied more heavily on Scripture than on the traditions of her faith as the basis for some of the premises of the book. For example, in the chapter titled "The Son of Man," von Trapp speculates on the death of Joseph. She mentions "how quiet" the house must have been for the widow Mary and clearly omits any indication that Mary and Joseph had other children, which is Biblically-sound (Matthew 13:53-58).
As a researcher with a background in history--and a love for Christ and the Bible--I can appreciate the fervor with which von Trapp and her family tried to recreate the "missing pieces" of Jesus' life. I also believe, however, that God purposely chose what He wanted us to know. Too much effort to reconstruct what we don't know takes our focus off of the truths of what we do know.
With her family and close friends, von Trapp delves into the history of Jewish customs in Jesus' time and how the geographic region looked in that day to conjure up a probable picture of what life was like for Jesus, Mary and Joseph. Like an experienced storyteller, von Trapp recounts what travelling may have been like for Mary and Joseph on that cold night when God humbled Himself and came into this world.
I can appreciate the use of Scripture within the text of "Yesterday, Today and Forever" and I wish von Trapp would have relied more heavily on Scripture than on the traditions of her faith as the basis for some of the premises of the book. For example, in the chapter titled "The Son of Man," von Trapp speculates on the death of Joseph. She mentions "how quiet" the house must have been for the widow Mary and clearly omits any indication that Mary and Joseph had other children, which is Biblically-sound (Matthew 13:53-58).
As a researcher with a background in history--and a love for Christ and the Bible--I can appreciate the fervor with which von Trapp and her family tried to recreate the "missing pieces" of Jesus' life. I also believe, however, that God purposely chose what He wanted us to know. Too much effort to reconstruct what we don't know takes our focus off of the truths of what we do know.
"The Hole in Our Gospel"--a book review
What does discipleship mean and how can we become disciples of Christ in the world around us? These questions are addressed in Richard Stearns' book "The Hole in Our Gospel." As President of World Vision U.S., Stearns has discipled and ministered to people in need throughout the world. He calls us to do the same, to fill the hole in our Gospel, too.
Stearns explains in great detail how he came to be President of World Vision U.S. and readily admits his reluctance at accepting the position. Time and again he tried to run from this calling, but he discovered that if God wants you in a certain place at a certain time, He will put you there! A terrific lesson that everyone should embrace.
The overall gist of this book is to spur Christians into action; to not just say we are Christians but to live the life a Christian is called to live. It's one thing to pity the poor; it's another thing to jump in and help the poor.
I thoroughly enjoyed Richard Stearns call to action--how he used poignant scripture references mixed with personal stories to illustrate his points--and it did inspire me to reconsider the areas of my life that lack true discipleship. The only minor fault I cite is the length of the book. Stearns' points could have been reached in 100 less pages.
Stearns explains in great detail how he came to be President of World Vision U.S. and readily admits his reluctance at accepting the position. Time and again he tried to run from this calling, but he discovered that if God wants you in a certain place at a certain time, He will put you there! A terrific lesson that everyone should embrace.
The overall gist of this book is to spur Christians into action; to not just say we are Christians but to live the life a Christian is called to live. It's one thing to pity the poor; it's another thing to jump in and help the poor.
I thoroughly enjoyed Richard Stearns call to action--how he used poignant scripture references mixed with personal stories to illustrate his points--and it did inspire me to reconsider the areas of my life that lack true discipleship. The only minor fault I cite is the length of the book. Stearns' points could have been reached in 100 less pages.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Dateline Jerusalem--a book review
Zola Levitt was a Jewish believer in Jesus Christ and remains an internationally-known and respected authority on the past, present and future of Israel and how Israel is closely tied into end times prophecy. In his book "Dateline Jerusalem," Levitt relies on scripture and experience to illustrate the importance of Israel and how God will fulfill His covenant with His chosen people in the Promised Land.
Zola Levitt writes in a conversational style that makes Dateline Jerusalem easy to understand and read in one sitting, time permitting. He does not sugar-coat his views on Muslims and the struggle between Israel and the Arab world in general. Likewise, Levitt calls out Christians who disregard Israel as playing a major role in end times prophecy; these kinds of Christians who believe that God will not fulfill the covenant He made with Israel in the beginning. Bible-believing Christians, however, understand that God keeps His promises; the covenant with Israel will surely be fulfilled.
This book is appropriate reading for any person who wants to know the truth about God's plan for Israel, Israel's relations with the Arabs and end time prophecy in general.
Zola Levitt writes in a conversational style that makes Dateline Jerusalem easy to understand and read in one sitting, time permitting. He does not sugar-coat his views on Muslims and the struggle between Israel and the Arab world in general. Likewise, Levitt calls out Christians who disregard Israel as playing a major role in end times prophecy; these kinds of Christians who believe that God will not fulfill the covenant He made with Israel in the beginning. Bible-believing Christians, however, understand that God keeps His promises; the covenant with Israel will surely be fulfilled.
This book is appropriate reading for any person who wants to know the truth about God's plan for Israel, Israel's relations with the Arabs and end time prophecy in general.
All men are fallible
We live in a mixed up society--and that is putting it mildly--a nation that mocks God while it places fallible, corrupt men on pedestals. The words of the prophet Isaiah ring as true today as they did when he preached them to the idol-worshipping, materialistic people of Judah:
Woe to those who call evil good and good evil,
who put darkness for light
and light for darkness,
who put bitter for sweet
and sweet for bitter.
Isaiah 5:20 (New International Version)
How is this society different from the materialistic idolaters of Judah?? We aren't. We worship stuff and bank accounts. Instead of worshipping our holy God--the Creator and sustainer, we adore fallible men. To illustrate this, consider the resolution--Resolution 600--that a congresswoman from Texas is trying to pass--a resolution that, according to Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, would honor Michael Jackson as "someone who will be honored forever and forever and forever and forever and forever." http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090708/ap_on_go_co/us_michael_jackson_congress
Only God should be honored forever and forever and forever and forever and forever.
She wants a resolution to be passed in our government that would bestow honor on Michael Jackson forever--while this same government has repeatedly tried to remove God from all facets of our society. This resolution should sicken and appal anyone who calls himself or herself a Christian.
I urge you to contact your state representatives to encourage a rejection of this resolution.
Woe to those who call evil good and good evil,
who put darkness for light
and light for darkness,
who put bitter for sweet
and sweet for bitter.
Isaiah 5:20 (New International Version)
How is this society different from the materialistic idolaters of Judah?? We aren't. We worship stuff and bank accounts. Instead of worshipping our holy God--the Creator and sustainer, we adore fallible men. To illustrate this, consider the resolution--Resolution 600--that a congresswoman from Texas is trying to pass--a resolution that, according to Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, would honor Michael Jackson as "someone who will be honored forever and forever and forever and forever and forever." http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090708/ap_on_go_co/us_michael_jackson_congress
Only God should be honored forever and forever and forever and forever and forever.
She wants a resolution to be passed in our government that would bestow honor on Michael Jackson forever--while this same government has repeatedly tried to remove God from all facets of our society. This resolution should sicken and appal anyone who calls himself or herself a Christian.
I urge you to contact your state representatives to encourage a rejection of this resolution.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Giving God our scraps
I've been guilty of treating my personal time with God like a receptionist who makes appointments. Okay, first I have to get the kids fed and dressed, go to the gym, run to the store and make lunch. Then I'll squeeze in some time to work on Bible Study lessons and then it's off to the library....
We all do it. We squeeze God in like He's a burden. How horrible a notion to write down here in this blog, let alone live on a daily basis. We have stacks of devotionals that we read at certain times of the day and we tell ourselves that those short, happy little readings count as our Bible time for the day. And I have nothing against devotionals (at least most of them!) because they do offer reflections on scripture that we might not conceive on our own.
But what happened to just picking up the Bible and reading it?? I've found that when I make special time for God in my day and just read His Word, it's like food for my soul. So nourishing that I think to myself "why don't I do this everyday?? That was great!!"
Why do we give God our scraps of time when He deserves our very best time?? Because we have our favorite shows to watch, best sellers to read, chores to do and hobbies to entertain. Of course, we'll make time when we want or need something. Instead of watching our favorite shows that night, we can just dvr them...
My ultimate point is this: make a concerted effort to give God your very best time of day to praise and worship Him!! For me, it's the morning. Once a cup or two of coffee is in me, I'm ready to go!
Consider this, too. God didn't give us His scraps when he offered Jesus as payment of our sin debt--He gave the world His very best. He deserves our very best, too.
We all do it. We squeeze God in like He's a burden. How horrible a notion to write down here in this blog, let alone live on a daily basis. We have stacks of devotionals that we read at certain times of the day and we tell ourselves that those short, happy little readings count as our Bible time for the day. And I have nothing against devotionals (at least most of them!) because they do offer reflections on scripture that we might not conceive on our own.
But what happened to just picking up the Bible and reading it?? I've found that when I make special time for God in my day and just read His Word, it's like food for my soul. So nourishing that I think to myself "why don't I do this everyday?? That was great!!"
Why do we give God our scraps of time when He deserves our very best time?? Because we have our favorite shows to watch, best sellers to read, chores to do and hobbies to entertain. Of course, we'll make time when we want or need something. Instead of watching our favorite shows that night, we can just dvr them...
My ultimate point is this: make a concerted effort to give God your very best time of day to praise and worship Him!! For me, it's the morning. Once a cup or two of coffee is in me, I'm ready to go!
Consider this, too. God didn't give us His scraps when he offered Jesus as payment of our sin debt--He gave the world His very best. He deserves our very best, too.
I fear the Lord!
I've learned a great deal lately from a weekly Bible study in which I participate. The study's focus is on fear of the Lord--not to fear God like you'd fear the Bogey man, but to fear facing His wrath if your life is sin-centered. God is not the soft teddy bear that many Christians make Him out to be; he is love but also just. Sin cannot go unpunished to those who fail to repent. He'll bring glory to those who trust in Christ and repent and wrath to those who choose to fester in wickedness. That's the first thing I learned.
I've also been made dramatically aware of how flippant I can be when I enter the presence of my Lord in prayer. How prideful I can be when I ask for blessings--and fully expect to receive them on *my* terms. Makes me want to crawl under a rock in shame! Our God has not changed. He's the same Lord as He was in the Old Testament. We can't put Him into a nice neat package to fit our needs. He is a holy God--and sin won't be tolerated.
These convictions I've had since this Bible study prove that there is hope--not just in my life, but in the lives of all believers in Christ who have discovered how a completely casual relationship with God can be dangerous. The hope is twofold. First, because I am so completely convicted, I know for sure that the Holy Spirit is working in my life. This is a comfort! Second, now that I understand how to fear the Lord and what this means as a believer, I can put this into practice in my life and model proper fear of the Lord to those around me.
I've also been made dramatically aware of how flippant I can be when I enter the presence of my Lord in prayer. How prideful I can be when I ask for blessings--and fully expect to receive them on *my* terms. Makes me want to crawl under a rock in shame! Our God has not changed. He's the same Lord as He was in the Old Testament. We can't put Him into a nice neat package to fit our needs. He is a holy God--and sin won't be tolerated.
These convictions I've had since this Bible study prove that there is hope--not just in my life, but in the lives of all believers in Christ who have discovered how a completely casual relationship with God can be dangerous. The hope is twofold. First, because I am so completely convicted, I know for sure that the Holy Spirit is working in my life. This is a comfort! Second, now that I understand how to fear the Lord and what this means as a believer, I can put this into practice in my life and model proper fear of the Lord to those around me.
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