Category: Discernment

What Do You Want More Than Anything Else in the World? 

Exploring Our Deepest Yearnings for God in Everyday Life  Every birthday, we close our eyes and make a wish. Every Christmas, children write out their deepest hopes for Santa. At weddings, we raise our glasses in hopeful toasts. When a new baby arrives, we dream big dreams for their future. Even in the tough moments of a mid-life crisis, the…

Cracks in the Foundation: How Deepening Divisions Are Shaping American Life 

An Honest Look at the Troubling Trends Undermining Our Democracy and Society  Introduction: The Widening Gap in American Culture  There’s no denying it—America feels more divided than ever. We see arguments not just about politics across dinner tables, on social media, and in the news. These arguments are about the basic rules that hold our society together. If you feel worried,…

The Bible: More Than Just Another “Good Read”

Personal Reflections on Unlocking Spiritual Growth Introduction: The Problem of Treating the Bible as Ordinary Have you ever felt stuck in your spiritual journey, like you’re just going through the motions but not really growing? I’ve been there, and it’s easy to wonder why our faith sometimes feels stagnant. Could it be that we’re treating the Bible as just another…

Be Gracious Toward Us: A Reflection on the Nation, the Church, and Our Daily Prayer

Pondering Our Need for Mercy, Strength, and Divine Presence in Uncertain Times Pondering the State of the Nation and the Church As I look around at the world today—at our nation, at the church, and at our personal lives—I can’t help but feel a deep need for something greater than what we can muster on our own. There’s so much…

Righteousness, Peace, and Joy: The Heart of God’s Kingdom

The Spiritual Essence of the Kingdom of God The phrase “My kingdom is not in meat or drink” serves as a paraphrase of Romans 14:17. This verse reads: “The kingdom of God is not about eating and drinking. It is about righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.” This statement is succinct yet profound. It captures the essence of…

Falling from Grace: A Reflection on Galatians 5:4 

The Concept of “Falling from Grace”  The phrase “falling from grace” is a profound and sobering concept. It is rooted in Galatians 5:4, which states: “You who are trying to be justified by the law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace.” In this passage, the Apostle Paul addresses the Galatian church. He cautions them against…

The Bible’s Perspective on Selfishness and Self-Love

Warnings, Consequences, and the Path to Selflessness The Bible offers profound insights into the dangers of selfishness and self-love. It describes these traits as key characteristics of the “last days.” These traits are depicted as harmful to personal relationships. They also serve as significant barriers to one’s connection with God. Scripture provides warnings and guidance through specific verses and examples.…

Jesus and His Radical Teachings on Power and Sacrificial Love

A Call to Transform the World The teachings of Jesus Christ stand as a timeless and life-changing beacon in human history. They redefine perceptions of power. They also call for a community marked by sacrificial love. This revolutionary perspective challenged societal norms in His time. It continues to inspire countless individuals to live lives of humility, compassion, and service. Redefining…