Life in Exile

Between natural disasters and revivals, things are getting shaken in our world today. Are you stuck, shaking in your boots or stirred into action?

Having seen the power of God's wrath, Noah worshipped the One who holds life and death in his hands. Will you do the same?

When we walk into service, we walk into battle. Thankfully, the Lord has provided just what we need to face it--His armor.

What can be good about the story of the Flood? I think we'll find a gem of grace even in this chapter of Genesis.

That which is on the inside sets us apart from the world. We feel it. People notice. Jesus is the cause.

Does the way I live affect others? Absolutely. Learn a lesson from Noah.

Fitting into a new culture takes adjustment that can be painful. Part of that adjustment is to our expectations and those of our teammates and the people we serve. Finding balance is needed for long-term service.

Is there more to life than just living and dying? Absolutely. Enoch knew the secret.

Are you demanding your rights? Why? Choose to live by his righteousness instead. 

What do we learn from the story of Cain and Abel? I see both the consequences of sin but also God's grace in action.

We are created to do good works, but not everyone we're asked by others to do. Sometimes we need to say no.

Genesis 3 is a learning guide to spotting the tricks of Satan, but it also is a reminder of God's grace and provision.

We cannot self-help our way out of sin. Jesus is the only cure that makes a difference for eternity.

Have you ever thought about the fact that God is the author of marriage? The coming together of husband and wife goes all the way back to the beginning, and in that account we learn the secret to a strong marriage.

Setting boundaries in ministry is key to maintaining integrity and a healthy life. It's okay to find ways to find space in service.

It all starts with light, and there could be no light without the God of light speaking into the darkness. Here are some of the gems from Genesis 1.

How do we stand up against Satan's attempts to masquerade evil with light? Know God's Word and and don't be afraid to use it.

Walk with me each Friday through a chapter of the book of Genesis. There is so much treasure to be found! Here's a short introduction to our study.

When a spouse travels or is away from home a lot for ministry, how do you survive at home alone or with the kids? Check out these tips for holding down the fort.

What are you hoping for as the new year approaches? Who are you hoping in? Make sure it's in the hope that does not disappoint.

There is a simple truth about service fatigue: It comes from a lack of rest. We all need to take breaks to recharge or we run out of juice to serve effectively.

John closes this letter with a reminder of what we know as Christ followers and the power of prayer. 

In light of the Christmas season, I am reposting this episode. It's a reminder of what we are to take note of not just this time of year, but every day as followers of Emmanuel.

Can I ever fit in among the people I'm called to serve? Struggles with contextualization lead many to long for home. What do you do with contextualization frustration?

Does God hear our prayers? Does he answer them? He does for those who believe in the name of his Son. Of that we can be assured.