From: November 4, 2015
Our hope is like a rope, anchored in the historical resurrection of Christ in the past, taken hold of by our hands of faith in the present, and proceeding into the future beyond the veil of heaven where the risen Lord has entered on our behalf. This hope is not ethereal, but both “sure and steadfast.” It is not hanging unhindered, but anchored at both ends. It is drawn taut between Christ’s resurrection and return. We cling to this cord of hope with hearts of faith, trusting His promises and assured by His Spirit’s presence within. Our hope is made of sturdy stuff.
From: November 4, 2014
Self aggrandizement is unwise. If you praise yourself, others will not only remain silent, they will think you immodest. Praise from a friend is good and praise from a stranger better still. An even greater tact is to humble yourself, so that the Lord Himself might lift you up (James 4:10).
From: November 4, 2013
Or as my parents and grandparents would say, “Lord willin’ we’ll do such and such tomorrow…” Although the “Lord willin” phrase sounded cliche, it still pointed to an awareness of God’s sovereignty over all things. Have we lost this awareness today?
From: November 4, 2012
We put dates on our calendars and plan for events a year in advance, yet we have no promise of tomorrow. Be careful not to brag of your plans. Instead say, “Lord willing…” (James 4:15). Or as those in the South say, “Lord willin and the criks don’t rise…” Or as the old preacher of my youth taught me to say, “If the Lord delays His comin and lets me live another day, I plan to be doin such and such tomorrow!”
From: November 4, 2011
In the midst of Ezekiel’s vision of God’s Spirit leaving the Temple, he hears this prophecy. It points to the coming of the Christ who will die for us and put His Spirit within us, so that we become the temple of God.