Living Biblically

How are we to use the resources God has placed in our hands for His glory? In the parable of the minas from Luke 19, Jesus illustrates the responsibility believers have to use the resources entrusted to them. Each servant is given a single mina, and upon the master's return, they must account for what they have done with it. The first two servants multiply their minas, receiving praise for their s...

What are the fundamental building blocks of a healthy society? Tom Ascol emphasizes the unchanging responsibilities of fathers, mothers, and children as ordained by God. Since God established the family as the cornerstone of society, these roles remain constant even as societal circumstances evolve. In today's negative world, especially for Christian fathers in America, fulfilling these roles pres...

What does it mean to be rooted in the local church while living in our modern-day Babylon? Scott Aniol emphasizes the importance of being firmly grounded in Scripture and the local church as we navigate our lives in a culture that can often feel like an exile. Although our daily activities and vocations have significance, as Christians, our ultimate citizenship is in heaven. Therefore, everything...

What does 'Occupy till I come' truly mean for believers today? Robert Bosley sheds light on this biblical mandate, emphasizing that regardless of our circumstances, we are called to fulfill the work God has entrusted to us. Whether we find ourselves in favorable or challenging times, under Christian or pagan governments, our responsibilities as Christians remain unchanged. We are to engage in the...

What role does the local church play in the flourishing of Christian families? Pooyan Mehrshahi discusses the pivotal role of the local church as a nurturing ground for families aiming to flourish according to biblical principles. The church serves as a vital foundation, providing strength, support, and spiritual nourishment through a community of believers dedicated to the teachings of Jesus Chri...

What should Christians do when the government punishes what is good? Kris Baines explores the complex relationship between Christians and governmental authorities, as outlined in the 1689 Baptist Confession and the Bible. God has established different spheres of authority, including the state, family, and church. However, there are times when these jurisdictions collide, and the government may ove...

What is the greatest inheritance you can leave for your children? Paul Carrington emphasizes that while leaving a material inheritance is important, the greatest legacy one can leave is the Word of God. It's not just about teaching it, but living it out in a way that your life centers around God, His work, and His church. Children may not remember specific dates or events, but they will remember t...

How can church life and family life be seamlessly interwoven? Dr. Joel Beeke shares a personal narrative of how his father, a ruling elder and carpenter, played a crucial role in their community during a time when they lacked a minister for 41 years. Despite the small size of their home, his father counseled people in their car, demonstrating the importance of church life even amid personal family...

Why is the local church essential for Christian families and their spiritual growth? Dr. Jeffrey D. Johnson emphasizes the vital role of the local church in nurturing Christian families and their faith. Despite the challenges and unhealthy influences some churches may present, isolating from the church can hinder spiritual growth and foster a sense of pride and unsubmissiveness. God has designed t...

How can we maintain a steadfast vision in a world that seems to have lost its way? Kevin Swanson emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision guided by God's Word, especially in times when society seems to have abandoned a biblical worldview. Drawing from the wisdom of Scripture is crucial for individuals, particularly parents and fathers, as they navigate the complexities of today's world....

Why do those without the gospel often overlook the dangers of tyrannical power? Conrad Mbewe reminds us that the Christian Church serves as the salt and light in a world that often turns a blind eye to tyrannical rulers. Such rulers, wielding military, political, or philosophical power, seek to replace God in the lives of their subjects. While the world may not see anything amiss, Christians recog...

Why are declining birthrates a cause for concern in our society today? Alexander Strauch addresses the alarming trend of falling birthrates, using South Korea as a case study. With projections suggesting that the country might not sustain its population within the next 52 to 100 years, the government is taking drastic measures like paying people and amending laws to encourage childbearing. Strauch...

What does it mean to play the long game in our faith journey? In his devotional, Brian Borgman draws from Jeremiah's message to the exiles in the Book of Consolation, specifically beginning in Jeremiah 29. He highlights the analogy between the Israelites in captivity and Christians today, who are described as exiles, aliens, and strangers in this world. Borgman emphasizes that Jeremiah's message w...

How do we build and thrive in a world that often feels hostile to our beliefs? In his devotional, Jason Dohm explores the wisdom found in Jeremiah 29, which instructs believers to build, dwell, and plant even in places where they feel out of place or captive. The passage encourages us to seek the peace of the city and pray for it, emphasizing that in its peace, we will find our own peace. This gui...

What role does the local church family play in the life of a believer? Tom Ascol emphasizes the essential role of a local church in the life of a Christian family. He argues that the most crucial step for a believer or a Christian household is to find a healthy church and commit to it, not merely by attending but by actively belonging and engaging with the community. The New Testament illustrates...

Does our earthly vocation hold any significance for eternity? Scott Aniol explores the relevance of our earthly roles in the context of our heavenly citizenship. Often, as fathers and men, there's a struggle to see the value in the daily grind of our jobs. We understand our duty to proclaim the gospel and live as faithful citizens of God's kingdom. Yet, questions arise about the importance of our...

Is there ever a time when Christians should take up arms against tyrannical rulers? Robert Bosley explores the biblical perspective on rebellion and civil disobedience. According to Romans 13, personal rebellion against governing authorities is clearly prohibited, emphasizing the importance of respecting governmental structures. However, Bosley notes that this does not require blind obedience to e...

What are the good things happening in Babylon? In his devotional, Pooyan Mehrshahi discusses the challenges of living in a place like Babylon and the responsibilities that parents, especially fathers, have in such an environment. Fathers are called to nurture and provide for their families, creating a safe and loving environment. This involves being men of the Bible, men of prayer, and leading the...

What is the true purpose of having children according to God's design? Mala Chindongo explores the common temporal reasons parents consider when having children, such as legacy and support in old age. In many cultures, including in Africa, children are seen as a type of retirement plan, where parents invest in their upbringing and education to ensure they will be cared for later in life. While the...

How should we live in uncertain times, waiting for Christ's return? In today’s devotional, Kris Baines challenges us to consider how we are spending our time as we await Christ's return. It can be tempting to question the value of investing in long-term projects when the world seems to be in turmoil. However, we are reminded of Christ’s words, "occupy till I come." This instruction from our Savior...

How can fathers cultivate a joyful and hopeful atmosphere in their homes? Paul Carrington emphasizes the vital role fathers play in shaping the spirit of their homes. He suggests that if a father allows pessimism to take root, driven by negative news and societal trends, it can lead to a sense of dejection. However, recognizing God's sovereignty allows fathers to maintain an optimistic and joyful...

How can Christians remain steadfast in a world increasingly hostile to biblical values? Dr. Joel Beeke addresses the concerns many Christian parents face today as they consider the challenges their children will encounter in a world that often opposes Christian beliefs. In this age, where concepts like marriage and gender are frequently redefined, Christians may find themselves anxious about the f...

How can Christians live as faithful citizens in a world that often feels foreign to their beliefs? Jeffrey D. Johnson invites us to consider how our sacred obligations, such as worship and devotion to God, are intricately connected with the everyday tasks we tend to view as mundane. Whether it's attending church services or performing daily chores like sweeping the floor or going to work, each act...

What does it mean to be a woman of faith in today's world? In his devotional, Kevin Swanson emphasizes the importance of mothers embodying faith and following the example set by great women of God from the past. These women are encouraged to love life, their children, and their husbands, submitting to their husbands as to the Lord. This devotion to their families and households is seen as a way to...

Why should we trust in God's sovereignty even when evil seems to prevail? Conrad Mbewe reminds us that God is not anxious or uncertain about the events unfolding in our world. Despite the apparent triumph of evil and the persecution of Christians, everything is still under His divine control. God remains seated on His throne, orchestrating His plans with perfect wisdom and authority. The challenge...