Life This Side of Heaven

When God wanted to speak to Moses, why did He choose that particular bush to appear to burst into flames? After all, it was just a bush like any other. Then again, why did God choose Moses to go to Pharaoh?

It's amazing how the Gospel has traveled throughout the world to peoples of all different nations, languages and cultures. And today, people of many different nations, languages and cultures have come to our doorstep. What an amazing opportunity we have been given to share the Gospel.

You're in good company! Have you found yourself being slandered, mocked or mistreated for being a Christian? Jesus tells you that you are blessed and even says, "Rejoice and be glad"! Find out why.

Sometimes we're so glad to know that when we die we will be with the Lord that we may overlook the best part that is yet to come. Take a closer look at our Lord's Easter victory for us, over sin and the death, and the incredible comfort which comes with His promise of the resurrection of the body.

Blessed. Did I just hear that right? Yes, blessed. When Jesus spoke these words in the Sermon on the Mount He was speaking to folks just like you and me.

Have you ever wondered what you might look like in a few decades? There's an app for that. Have you ever wondered what you will look like at Christ's return? There's a promise in God's Word for that.

Imagine one day that you woke up to discover that you were royalty? Here's the best part – you don't have to imagine. You are a child and heir of God. And the One to assure you is the King Himself.

Treaties, pacts, covenants, and accords come and go. Here is one, though, that still stands this day and will last forever.

You're a saint! Does hearing that make you feel bashful? Don't feel shy. It's a gift from God.

It's Theme Thursday but we're going to take time this special opportunity to celebrate Reformation Day, October 31.

In the Scriptures God describes sin, and the work of the devil, using much the same language as the alerts which come with mountain lion activity.

"How can I thank the Lord for all His benefits to me?" The Psalmist's answer may surprise you.

Sometimes wonderful Bible verses get shortened in order to fit them onto a decorative plaque or pillow. However, sometimes they leave off the best part.

"Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake." No, that's not an advertisement for the latest zombie movie. That's the exiting good news of the resurrection in Daniel.

"I'm going to let my child grow up and when they are older they can decide for themselves if they want to be a Christian." On the surface that may sound modern and reasonable. But actually, it's a very old mistake and actually robs your child of a precious opportunity.

In the Apostles' Creed we confess, "I believe ... in the forgiveness of sins." Even though our God is omniscient He also possesses and amazing ability. He can truly forgive ... and forget!

Have you ever been told, "The only person you can depend on is yourself"? That may not serve us well when it comes to trusting God's promises. And it can rob us of blessings if it contends with our faith.

Today it's easier than ever to find a place to worship that will say what we our ears want to hear. But if that message leads us away from God's Word it will ultimately lead us away from God. Paul's caution to Timothy resonates today just as it did then.

It's Fall and you can't miss the car and truck commercials telling you about the latest features available on every new vehicle. They are "well-equipped." Now listen to Paul tell you about the nature and features of God's Word. It leaves the believer "thoroughly equipped."

It's not surprising that we are impressed by those people who are the greatest - the very best at what they do. But it is surprising to hear Jesus tell us what is necessary to be greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

Being a Christian isn't frightening. However, being persecuted for being a Christian is frightening. As a result, there may have been times when, like Peter, we have been tempted to shrink back, or even deny our Savior. In light of this, Paul has a wonderful axiom that is worth hearing.

In the Apostles' Creed we confess, "I believe ... in the holy Christian Church." It's become fashionable these days to say, "I love Jesus, but I hate the church." However, in Ephesians, Paul says Christ loves it. So what does this term mean?

You are not unimportant. And you are never alone. Ruth, in the Old Testament, had no idea what the future held – but God did.

"Be strong." Here's a phrase that's popular on coffee mugs and on motivational plaques and posters. But sometimes it's easy to mistake a motivational message with a shortened version of God's Word.

"I'll take your word for it." Have you ever used that expression? Ten lepers who met Jesus certainly reacted that way when He heard their plea.