The great Apostle Peter once wrote, “Therefore, let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good” (1 Peter 4:19). Clearly Peter understood two very important things: when we do the will of God suffering may come (contrary to the whole health and wealth narrative), and God is faithful in the midst […]
At a global ministry conference in Beirut, Lebanon, I was asked to share my reflections on the state of the American church and the implications of my observations for global ministry. Here is a survey of what I shared: First, evangelicalism, which is a rich theological construct, has been co-opted by American politics and is now perceived as a political […]
New Hope Church has enjoyed a rich season tracking through the Old Testament book called “Ruth.” It is the beautiful, dramatic, and yet simple story of two widows seeking to find their way past hopelessness, despair, and grief. If you have not done so, let me urge you to read the Book of Ruth, and listen to the eight messages […]
For a couple of days I have watched, admittedly from the comfortable confines of my home, the unfolding drama in Mexico because of the earthquake, and the unfolding events in Puerto Rico because of Hurricane Maria. Of course, both of these horrid disasters come on the heels of Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Harvey; and all of these events are just […]
Mountain-top experiences may be exhilarating, but most of life is lived in the lowlands. Certainly that is made clear in the historical accounting of a father and his demonized son, and the various people that are connected with their drama. Read through Mark 9:14 and following for the details: And when they came to the disciples, they saw a great […]
The italicized heading tucked into the middle of Romans 12 within my Bible says, “Marks of the True Christian.” And then, just a few words below that heading is the exhortation to “weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15). A cursory reflection on the meaning of the word “weep” suggests weeping as an indication of grief and pain—mourning. Moreover, it […]
It’s strange living in a time where we have scalpel-sharp precision when decrying other’s faults, but a blind inability to examine our own.
“After you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will *himself* restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you” (1 Pet 5:10).
That promise got Jani and me through the worst year of our lives.
Maybe for you now?
