One of the truisms in pastoral ministry is that ‘politics and religion don’t mix.’ The meaning of that axiom, while poorly worded, is this: The heart of our message to the world is based in the gospel, not politics. That gospel contains ‘bad news’ (which is about us) and ‘good news’ (which is about God).
After listing some of the great heroes of faith from the Old Testament in Hebrews 11, the author of this grand New Testament epistle begins the twelfth chapter with these words: Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so
For this reason God will send upon them a deluding influence so that they will believe what is false, in order that they all may be judged who did not believe the truth, but took pleasure in wickedness. 2 Thessalonians 2.11-12 Mark Twain once wrote, “It ain’t what you don’t know that gets you into
When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. Psalm 56.3 We are living in a day of fear. COVID fears consume many; some Christians are so exercised about it that they divide from other Christians who feel differently than they do. There are fears of the encroachment of evil into our
…let us draw near with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Hebrews 10.22 This summer we are exploring intimacy with God – what it means, and how we can enjoy it on our personal spiritual ‘walk’ with
Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; For the LORD GOD is my strength and song, And He has become my salvation. Isaiah 12.2 Looking into the (still) future, the prophet Isaiah saw a distant day when, after long judgment for her sin, Israel is restored in a
Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16 Having a ‘high priest’ may seem strange to you, but we have one – Jesus! That’s what the author of Hebrews is talking about in
He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” Mark 4:39-40 This is one of the favorite stories for children from the
Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7 The first-century Christians Peter addressed in First Peter faced withering persecution. Living a faithful life led them to live changed
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 To a nation reeling from the Great Depression and facing an uncertain future, President Franklin Roosevelt in his
