If the local church wants to be an instrument of the Lord, then it needs to function the way He has designed it—as a body. The Apostle Paul brings some important things to our attention about participating in a church.

The Bible tells us very clearly who we are and what we deserve. We are sinners who have fallen short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23). Because of that, we deserve death; eternal separation from the holy and perfect Father (Romans 6:23). No matter what we do in our own power and effort, we cannot change that fact. But this is where Christ comes in with His mercy and His grace!

The whole account of Haggai is incredibly practical for the 21st century. One may even think that it was intended just for us living in this post-modern era, though it was written in 520 B.C.

It occurs to me that life—especially in our current culture and world—can be like that treacherous, obscured journey through the fog. As we follow God’s Word, we know that we’re ultimately on the right path, but everything around us appears sin-sick and confused.

In some ways, even the freedom of religion in our country feels like it is slipping away, as “cancel culture” seems to take ever-greater precedence over the First Amendment. In 1 Peter 4:12-19, we are told how we should respond when the world attacks us for our faith.

According to our culture, if you do not rejoice in your sin, there’s something wrong with you. However, we are not called to live by the world, but by the Word. Do not take sin lightly.

Her heart yearned so desperately for a son. As she prayed in the temple, she promised that if only God would grant her a boy, she would “give him to the LORD all the days of his life”

We can learn a lot from a man on a cross. This individual’s name is only known to God. We find this man—a criminal sentenced to death—hanging beside Jesus in Luke 23:39-43.

By my grandfather’s own admission, you likely would have never heard of Billy Graham if not for his decision to accept the full authority of Scripture.

We are all called to be evangelists. Are you willing to spend the time in prayer and the Word so that when those opportunities arise, you’ll be ready?

When eternity is on the line—the difference between Heaven and Hell—I don’t pull punches. People need to know that both are real, literal places, and surrendering one’s life to Jesus is the difference.

When it’s all about me (I’m working hard, I’m making my way, I’m going to do what I need to get ahead), it leaves very little room for the One who has promised that He has a plan for us.

Think about those around you who have not made a decision for Christ. Think about your mom or dad, your brother or sister, your neighbor, your co-worker. Tell me—are they worth it?

God has you where you are for a season and for a reason. Honor your family, hold them while you can, and proclaim the hope of Christ as much—and as boldly—as possible.

Too often we only want to be filled with the Spirit on Sundays, and as soon as we leave our church service, we return to our worldly routines of mundane tasks, acceptable temptations or angry confrontations.