“Truly God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled, my steps had nearly slipped. For I was envious of the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. For they have no pangs until death; their bodies are fat and sleek. … Continue reading The Triumph of the Wicked? Thoughts on Psalm 73
Author: Dr. Jake Brock
The Peace of God
“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” -Philippians 4:7 (ESV) Photo by Simon Migaj on Pexels.com In the year 2020, it is almost a cliché to say that we are living in troubled times. This year has been a remarkable year of challenges, … Continue reading The Peace of God
The Blessing of Forgiveness
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com “Be gracious to me, God, according to your faithful love; according to your abundant compassion, blot out my rebellion.” - Psalm 51:1 (CSB) When you think of the sweetest, most precious word in the English language, what word comes to your mind? That’s likely not an easy question for you … Continue reading The Blessing of Forgiveness
Dealing with Rejection: Luke 8:40
“When Jesus returned, the crowd welcomed him, for they were all expecting him.” -Luke 8:40 (CSB) Rejection. Such a dark word and such a painful experience. Rejection can make us feel ugly, unwanted, unappreciated, and alone. And yet, in spite of the loneliness which often accompanies it, rejection is an experience almost universal to humanity. … Continue reading Dealing with Rejection: Luke 8:40
Love Your Enemies: Luke 6:27-38
“But I say to you who listen: Love your enemies, do what is good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If anyone hits you on the cheek, offer the other also. And if anyone takes away your coat, don’t hold back your shirt either. Give … Continue reading Love Your Enemies: Luke 6:27-38
Thoughts About Salt (Luke 14:34-35)
“Salt is good, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is of no use either for the soil or for the manure pile. It is thrown away. He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” -Luke 14:34-35 (ESV) Purity is an important concept – both for physical … Continue reading Thoughts About Salt (Luke 14:34-35)
The Extraordinary Ordinary: Thoughts on Luke 5:1-11
The Lord has an astounding ability to turn every day, ordinary circumstances into extraordinary moments. We expect God to work mightily in the unique, special, and critical moments of life – weddings, funerals, births, graduation ceremonies, illnesses, family crises (and sometimes combinations of these) just to name a few. However, it sometimes feels hard to … Continue reading The Extraordinary Ordinary: Thoughts on Luke 5:1-11
Thoughts on Mother’s Day
Like many special days, national holidays, and periods of celebration, Mother’s Day has an interesting history. The movement to establish a day to recognize and celebrate the impact and influence of mothers in the United States began in the late 19th century as a result of the work of two women: Ann Reeves Jarvis and … Continue reading Thoughts on Mother’s Day
Facing the Unknown: Thoughts on a New Year
As I write this, I have been reflecting on 2017 and the many things that have taken place in my life, the life of my family and my church, and others around me during the past year. The past year contained many blessings, as well as many challenges. As we shortly turn the page and … Continue reading Facing the Unknown: Thoughts on a New Year
Thoughts on saying "No"…
Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. – James 1:12 One of the most difficult things to learn in life is how to say “no.” There are some opportunities that present themselves … Continue reading Thoughts on saying "No"…