How could David slaughter men and women…and lie about it? – 1st Samuel 26 & 27, Part 4

In the previous post, we read something very dark about David, who was supposed to be a man after God’s own heart. In 1st Samuel 27, we learned that David and his men go out on raids, slaughtering people.  Men and women.  Also, David clearly didn’t want his new king, the Philistine, Achish, to knowContinue reading “How could David slaughter men and women…and lie about it? – 1st Samuel 26 & 27, Part 4”

Delegation is discipleship that builds up the church – Caring for one another, Part 4

Though I’m a leader, I sometimes struggle with delegation, as there are times when I think it will be so much easier and faster if I just handle whatever matter is before me.  Getting others involved takes time, and they might not do the work like I think it should be done.  Maybe you knowContinue reading “Delegation is discipleship that builds up the church – Caring for one another, Part 4”

When leaders turn their backs on God – Ezekiel 11, Part 2

Editor’s Note: Thanks to David Hundert who is our guest blogger this week, continuing our series through Ezekiel. Do you find it difficult to trust in God? If so, you’re not alone. People of all shapes and sizes can find it difficult to trust in God. Leaders struggle with this just as much as non-leaders.Continue reading “When leaders turn their backs on God – Ezekiel 11, Part 2”

How’s your heart? – Jude 1-16, Part 3

How is your heart? We normally think of this question in medical terms. But in this post, think about your heart in spiritual terms. Does God have your heart? In this series of posts on the first 16 verses of the ancient letter called Jude, we’ve been learning that Jude was writing to Christians toContinue reading “How’s your heart? – Jude 1-16, Part 3”

Why we can follow God’s way even when we’re scared or anxious [How God feels about our fear – Deuteronomy 31-34, part 5]

What mountains are you facing? This past year, I started doctoral studies, and the thought of researching, writing and defending a dissertation feels like a vast, unconquerable mountain. If I’m honest, sometimes being a pastor of church feels that way too. As does parenting or living out the way of Jesus in our complex world.Continue reading “Why we can follow God’s way even when we’re scared or anxious [How God feels about our fear – Deuteronomy 31-34, part 5]”

How God’s mercy changes the future [How God feels about our fear – Deuteronomy 31-34, part 3]

Do you feel stuck? Maybe you see some light breaking through the darkness, but there is a wall, a forest that seems like it is blocking the way. Maybe it feels like you will never get past the difficult situation you face. When we are in the middle of pain, we can wonder if GodContinue reading “How God’s mercy changes the future [How God feels about our fear – Deuteronomy 31-34, part 3]”

Grim last words from a beloved leader? [How God feels about our fear – Deuteronomy 31-34, part 2]

Have you felt the sting of words that make you want to hide your face? Words have great power to wound, and power to heal. Last words are particularly meaningful and impactful. Maybe you’ve heard someone give their last words before death. More than likely you still remember them. What do you want your lastContinue reading “Grim last words from a beloved leader? [How God feels about our fear – Deuteronomy 31-34, part 2]”

An embarrassing dream told me the truth about my life [How God feels about our fear – Deuteronomy 31-34, part 1]

I want to tell you about a dream I had this week.  I’ve had a similar one before.  Maybe you’ve had one like this too.  My dream started as I was sitting in a chair at a pool party at a place I didn’t recognize.  At the party were some of my kids’ friends andContinue reading “An embarrassing dream told me the truth about my life [How God feels about our fear – Deuteronomy 31-34, part 1]”

Practices for a blessed life [Deuteronomy 26-28]

Today we’re talking about practice.  At the time of the interview above, Allen Iverson was taking heat for skipping practice.  We’re going to find that being committed to practice can save us from a whole bundle of trouble. Turn to Deuteronomy.26:16-19.  This little section at the end of chapter 26 will transition us to theContinue reading “Practices for a blessed life [Deuteronomy 26-28]”

Of Prophets [God’s heart for people to find truth, part 3]

When you think of prophets, what comes to mind?  A scraggly guy like the one in the picture above?  Or maybe a preacher in a church?  Someone who has a vision of the future?  The Bible is loaded with prophets, and they come in many shapes and sizes.  One thing is similar about them all,Continue reading “Of Prophets [God’s heart for people to find truth, part 3]”