Discipleship

AMAZING FAITH

[Jesus] was amazed at him, and turning to the crowd following him, he said, “I tell you, I have not found such great faith…” (Luke 7:9) I’m amazed that Jesus was amazed.  Luke uses this word 18 times, and only once does it describe Jesus.  (In nearly every other instance, people are surprised and impressed by the words and works […]

fast and slow

Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. (James 1:19–20) What is the connection between listening, speaking, and anger? Although it’s mentioned last, let’s start with a quick look at anger. Most people work hard to avoid expressing their anger–not me! I am […]

macro photography of water waves

Will you have too much faith next year?

“But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do. (James 1:6-8) Scripture makes it clear: we ought to deal […]

More than a glitch

In a list of basic spiritual teachings, Hebrews 6:1 mentions “the repentance from acts that lead to death.” The writer does not talk about a single act that leads to a single death. Instead, there are many kinds of actions that lead to many “deaths.” There is a death that is not final. Physical death is a one time event […]