Life in Exile

I am so thankful. This has been an amazing year, and I just want to talk about the goodness of God in my life and give him praise. What are you thankful for?

Without full trust in the Shepherd, the sheep are prone to scatter when the going gets tough. Thankfully, we have a Shepherd who seeks out the lost and is able to bring them back into the fold.

Can we undo the damage we’re causing to the name of Christ by loving without borders or taking the world’s side over that of God’s Word? What will it take for us to jump off the bandwagon of society and reclaim a biblical worldview and witness? Tough Love.

The prophet Haggai and the writer of Hebrews make a connection with all the shaking that's happening in our world today. However, there is a final shaking to come. At that point, there's no turning back. Choose Christ before it's too late.

Being thankful makes an impact for the cause of Christ, not just in our annual celebrations but in our daily words and attitude.

What does the righteousness imparted to us by Christ do? It helps us to live by faith and not by sight. God spoke this truth to Habakkuk and he speaks the same to us today.

Is anything certain in this world today? How do we function with such uncertainty? By His grace.

Words God gave through the prophet Amos would be used hundreds of years later to solve a conflict. God's Word can be used to do the same today.

How do American elections affect our work among the nations? Does God really care about our votes? Whatever your answer, we need to pray and seek wisdom and discernment in all matters political.

An minor prophet and insignificant deacon both had strong words to say to some big audiences. Amos and Stephen were both God's men for their times and were faithful to stand firm, despite the consequences.

Feeling overwhelmed by all the things life is throwing your way? What do we do with the troubles of this world? Take it to the Lord in prayer.

The second chapter of Joel provides the connection Peter used to deliver a clear gospel message to the crowd at Pentecost. All who call on the name of the Lord will be saved. The Spirit is the proof.

I'm sharing a chapter from my new book, When Serving Gets Tough. Do you struggle with the evil of this world? It's understandable. Thankfully, God helps us with our questions.

Jesus uses the Father's words through the prophet Hosea to speak against the self-righteous legalism of the Pharisees. This Old Testament lesson of mercy over sacrifice is still as important for us today.

This is an extra long post today, because I decided it was time to share some thoughts on what's happening in the Middle East.

We don't deserve God's love and favor, and yet, he pursues us, even in our unfaithfulness. Paul refers to not only the words of the prophet Hosea but his life to make the point. We do nothing to deserve the love of God.

My new devotional for missionaries and cross-cultural workers is out! Learn more about When Serving Gets Tough.

There is a reason the gospel writers inserted the phrase, "let the reader understand" when recording their Master's words about the end of days. Studying the book of Daniel helps us understand. Heeding Jesus' warnings helps too.

A recent yard project has taught me some interesting lessons about deep roots and God's grace.

There is some good news in Jeremiah today: A new covenant is coming. The writer of Hebrews lets us know it has arrived because of the finished work of Christ on the cross.

Do you feel like motherhood is taking you from "real" mission work? Give your frustrations to God and remember that motherhood is at the heart of missions, not a side job.

To boast or not to boast: that is the question. In Christ, there is but one reason to answer in the affirmative. If I boast, I boast in Christ.

Why if we work to train for earthly jobs do we not do the same for the position that makes an impact for eternity. Are you a skilled worker for the Kingdom of Christ?

Like a wayward son, many Jews have rejected the God of their fathers. A former Pharisee, Paul gives great insight, not only into the heart of God for his people but his path to salvation through Christ.

When it gets hard to move into a certain country, God has a solution: he brings the people out. God shakes the nations to reach the nations. Our message: home is found in Christ.