Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.” Observation: This verse struck me because the contrast of timidity and discipline. I guess the same goes with love. So Paul’s response to fear would challenge the love shown, or the [...]
Scripture: Ephesians 3:16-19 “I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, [...]
Scripture: Matthew 14:28-29 “‘Then Peter called to Jesus, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you by walking on water.’ ‘All right, come,’ Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus.” Observation: Something about having Jesus right in front of you telling [...]
Scripture: Acts 26:27-29 “King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know you do. Then Agrippa said to Paul, “Do you think that in such a short time you can persuade me to be a Christian?” Paul replied, “Short time or long—I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me [...]
Scripture: Luke 14:34-35 “Salt is good for seasoning. But if it loses its flavor, how do you make it salty again? Flavorless salt is good neither for the soil nor for fertilizer. It is thrown away.” Observation: This is another rich chapter in Luke. Christ heals a man at a dinner party and as they [...]
Scripture: John 7:13 “But no one had the courage to speak favorably about [Jesus] in public, for they were afraid of getting in trouble with the jewish leaders.” Observation: For they were afraid. Fear is such a powerful motivator and it reaches to every corner of our lives. Perhaps it’s most devastating effects come when [...]
Scripture: 1 Timothy 5:20 “Anyone who sins should be rebuked in front of the whole church so that others will have a proper fear of God.” Observation: I wonder what Christ thinks of this. Does he look at the way we do church today and think “you’re messing it up!” Or would he have said [...]