Life in Exile

In following Jesus, it's not just that do good, but do it in secret. In this, we achieve the level of righteousness he requires and our reward from God.

Is God the theme of your life? Does he receive credit for any good that you do or that people see in you? Your life and words may be the only glimpse of God some may ever see.

Being available to connect others is a great way God allows us to be part of the process in another's life and spiritual journey. We can find great joy, even when it means we step back so they can step forward.  

What makes us reflect the perfection of God? Loving those who are not like us. And not just loving them but praying for them as well. This is how ordinary Christians live extraordinary lives to the glory of Christ.

The way we view God affects the way we live out our Christian life. It's important that the way we do that reflects on the true nature of the God we serve.

Investing in others not only prepares them for ministry but allows us to leave the work in their hands when it's time for us to move on. Are you working yourself out of a job or holding on?

Doing good to those who do good to us is expected. Doing good to those who do us evil sends a message that brings glory to Christ.

When pain hits, God understands. Why? How? Because he loved us enough to suffer with and for us.

Doors don't close in ministry without another door opening. It might not look the same, but it will be just as full of blessings as we walk through it in obedient expectation. What's an unexpected place God's taken you where you've found him at work?

How are you doing these days with keeping your word? There's only one who has never broken his word, so we need to stick to simple yes and no answers. Anything else will not help our witness.

The gift of his son for our salvation is God's response to the suffering of mankind under the weight of sin.

Awareness of the power of emotions keeps us from growing bitter when doors close in life and ministry.

When Jesus's words sound harsh and strict, it's good to dig deep into they why of his ways. It's always for our good.

Are you struggling with relationships? Think today if it might be due to the fact that you don't first have the only relationship that satisfies -- with God.

Change is hard, even when God is clearly closing a door to service. Leaving behind empowered and blessed group to carry on the work is a great boost to our own ability to leave with grace and peace.

Can we find redemption from sexual sins? What about sexual desires? Jesus has the answer for both. Actually, Jesus is the answer.

What are you doing to stay strong in the face of spiritual opposition? All that the Bible teaches about the end times is already at work in our world today. Are you aware? Are you prepared?

Is there service after loss? Can we not just press on? Some say yes, but God allows for grief. 

Righteous living doesn't start with an outward act but an inner attitude.

As the source of all life, as triune God, the Lord shares himself with us through creation and ultimately through his Son and Spirit.

Just as in nature, there are natural seasons in ministry. With each change, doors will close but others open. 

Choosing to follow Christ doesn't mean we throw away the rulebook, it just means we live according to God's rules out of love him and by the righteousness we receive through grace in faith.

It is a fact that Christians sin. It is also a reality that by confession they find forgiveness and repair to the broken soul. 

Sometimes leaving a place isn't about pain but about peace, and that peace comes from God to let you know it's time to go.

In Christ, we are the lights of the world. What does that mean? What does it look like? What reaction does it bring?