Category Archives: Discipleship

The Best Version of the Bible

Four preachers were discussing their favorite translations of the Bible.

The first one said, “I like the King James Version because it’s the one I grew up with and I love its beautiful English.”

The second preacher said, “I like the New American Standard version because it is closer to the original Greek and Hebrew.” Continue reading

1 Comment

Filed under Discipleship

“In God We Trust”

On this date in history, July 30, 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed “a law declaring “In God We Trust” to be the nation’s official motto.”

While the phrase had been used on coins since the Civil War, it was also mandated to be printed on all paper currency as well.

In 1954 in a Flag Day Speech, Eisenhower explained his feelings about the motto, as well as the phrase “under God” included in the Pledge of allegiance two years earlier. Continue reading

1 Comment

Filed under Discipleship, Trust

Are You “All In”?

 

Occasionally I will write a blog post based on some weird and wacky US holiday. Like “National Bear Hug Day.” Or “National Failures Day.” Or “Weary Willie Day.”

Writing today from Welland, Ontario, I wondered if Canada has some unusual holidays. A bit to my surprise, I discovered a page of “133 of the weirdest national days in a Canadian year.”

Tomorrow, July 26th is “National All or Nothing Day.” Continue reading

2 Comments

Filed under Commitment, Discipleship

Living Godly in an Ungodly World

One of the highlights of our trip to Ontario Canada, each year is participating in the VBS at the Wellandport Church. They may be small in number by the world’s standards. But they are great in faith, hope, and love.

It was a privilege to teach the adult class and share lessons about Noah, the ark and the flood. But it’s a real pleasure to see the children’s genuine joy. Their unbridled enthusiasm. And hear them sing their little hearts out. Continue reading

2 Comments

Filed under Discipleship

Lower the Temperature

In the aftermath of the assassination attempt on former President Trump’s life, many voices in the political arena have called for both sides to tone down the virotic rhetoric.

In fact, President Biden himself has spoken three times in this regard, including a rare Oval Office address to the American public on Sunday night.  He began his six minute address with these words. Continue reading

1 Comment

Filed under Discipleship

Can We Nullify God’s Grace?

In response to a recent post on grace, one our faithful readers and my good friend, Jim asked, “Can those who show no grace continue to live in God’s grace?

“Grace teaches us to deny ungodly and worldly lusts and to live soberly, righteously and Godly in this present world,” Jim observed.

“However” he added, “if we do not live the nature of Grace towards others do we abide in God’s grace? Just a thought. Can we truly nullify the Grace of God in our own lives?” Continue reading

2 Comments

Filed under Discipleship

Escaping Satan’s Clutches

Not long after daylight on July 4th our daughter, Rachél, was attacked by an alligator in the shallow water of the Hillsborough River at her Temple Terrace home.

Rachél instinctively screamed but the gator wouldn’t let go of her right leg. After hitting it with a rock, she punched it in the nose with her fist. But the gator held on. Tight. Continue reading

5 Comments

Filed under Discipleship

IT’S FRIDAY. BUT SUNDAY’S COMING! From Sadness to Gladness

(We are on a short holiday blogging break.  But here’s a past post from ten years ago for your encouragement today.  It’s from a column we published for over 3 years.  There are over 170 posts on the theme:  It’s Friday. But Sunday’s Coming! This is one of my favorites.  Enjoy!)
The supper has ended.  Jesus has washed the disciples feet.  He identifies His betrayer.  And Judas has left the gathering and gone out into the night.  (Continue reading)
 

Leave a comment

Filed under Discipleship

Broken

Yesterday was “Canada Day.” It’s somewhat equivalent to our “Independence Day” celebrated in the United States on July 4th.

Canada Day celebrates the anniversary of the Canadian Confederation which occurred on July 1, 1867, in which Britain recognized Canada as a “kingdom with its own right.” Informally it is referred to as “Canada’s birthday.”

Like Americans in the USA, Canadians are very proud of their country. Yesterday there were flags flying. Celebrations. Bar-b-ques. Parades. Musical entertainment. And, of course, fireworks. Continue reading

2 Comments

Filed under America, Culture, Discipleship

A Biblical Response to “Pride Month”

Two years ago the late Matt Bassford posted this piece on his blog site His Excellent Word. It’s a thoughtful and well reasoned response to “Pride Month.” We recommend its message for your careful consideration. Continue reading

1 Comment

Filed under America, Discipleship, Evangelism