“Sickness, Sin & Righteous Prayer” November 24
Like everyone else in this fallen world, believers suffer from physical sickness and discouragement. What should we do during those times? James offers us some encouragement.
“Our Desires & the Process of Sin” November 23
God does not want us ignorant of the process of sin. He shows us how, like a fisherman, the devil offers us the bait and how it connects with desires in our own hearts. God has clearly explained this process of sin so we can avoid being ensnared. But would you recognize it, if it was happening to you? Or could you be nibbling on some temptation designed just for you? And could he be about to reel you in?
“Are Your Words Blessing or Cursing?” November 22
The Apostle Paul says that our speech should be edifying. Would people say that word describes how you speak to others? In today’s post, we’ll look at the word “edifying,” what James and Paul had to say about the words of our mouths, and how important our speech is to God.
We’ll also look at an Old Testament picture of the new birth and the importance of humility to our walks with God.
“Is Believing ‘in’ God Enough?” November 21
Many people claim to believe in God. But is merely believing “in” God enough to save us? If not, what do we need to understand or believe?
Additionally, Ezekiel was called to be a watchman for the nation of Israel, warning them of impending judgment. How does this relate to us today?
“Is It a Test from God or a Temptation from Satan?” November 20
Most people would agree that the current state of our nation’s government is one of a broken system. But there’s little agreement about how to fix it. People on one side think we need to tear down the whole thing. Others say we need to get back to what they believe are the basics of our constitutional foundations.
Though there may be huge theological and political differences, there are people on both sides of the issue who sincerely believe they are right. But as Christians, is there actually a more radical plan that we should be praying for and working toward?
“Should We Submit to Church Authority?” November 19
How should we view church authority? Should we submit to our church leaders? What is our responsibility? And how does God use these truths “to watch out for our souls”?
We’ll also look at the danger of pride in our own achievements and how we should view helping the poor, including when we should not help.
“Where is God When Life is Hard?” November 18
Where is God when life is hard? Does He allow tests and trials in our lives because He is angry? Do they mean He doesn’t love us? And if our trials are the result of God’s discipline, how should we respond?
Also, what is the one character quality that will enable us to be all Christ wants us to be, the one without which we cannot come to God or love Him the way we should? It’s the same quality required to love and serve others, lead in a godly way, communicate biblically, resolve conflict, deal with the sins of others, and resist sin ourselves. So, what is it?
“Faith, Key to the Christian Life” November 17
What does it take to live the Christian life? Is there a key, something so essential that we can’t please God without it? In fact, there is. It’s required for salvation and for our ongoing trust in God. That key is faith. So, if faith is so important, where does it come from, and how can we strengthen it when it’s weak? The answer is simpler than you think.
“How to Trust God During Tough Times” November 16
Trusting God during tough times can be one of the most difficult challenges we face. How do we continue to trust Him when He doesn’t seem to be answering our prayers, when a child isn’t getting better, when finances still seem impossible, or when the doctor hands us a bad report? Where do we find hope? What will we believe about God during those tough times? And if we’re not in the middle of a challenging season, what can we do to be ready for them when they come?
“The Blessing of Fellowship” November 15
What a privilege we have to become children of God and have a personal relationship with Him. But what about Christian fellowship with other believers? How should we view church attendance, involvement, and the nature of our relationships with one another? Are those things requirements for a Christian? Are they duties or are they not that important? What does the Bible have to say?
