Words We Prefer Not to Hear: “Selflessness”
If you were to hold a popularity contest for words, “selflessness” would not be anywhere near the top of the list. Advertisers spend billions of dollars trying to convince us of things we need to make us look better, feel better, and enjoy the conveniences of life. “Selflessness” is not generally a good marketing strategy.
Words We Prefer Not to Hear: “Sin”
It’s interesting how our parents didn’t need to teach us, as little children, how to sin. All of us already knew how to demonstrate sin on our own. That’s because we were born with a sin nature. We were slaves of sin (Romans 6:17), but as believers, we have been freed from sin and become slaves of righteousness. (Romans 6:18).
A suggestion for 2016: Take “THE LOVE TEST”
The central question for our lives as believers, then, is “how are we doing at loving?” The biblical love test begins with how the Scriptures define love, and we quickly find that it is very different than the romantic love/compatibility described in the internet love tests.
Words We Prefer Not to Hear: “Obey”
In society today, the word “obey” is often maligned. It is sometimes made to sound militaristic or legalistic. Certainly, the word can be used that way. Some leaders try to lead by fear and intimidation. Some parents even do that to their children, using the words “Because I said so,” as though they are the ultimate authority. But God’s call to obedience is anything but by fear or force.
Reflections on San Bernardino
“San Bernardino.” The name of this one-time quiet suburb of Los Angeles has now been emblazoned into the eyes and minds of millions of Americans and has become known worldwide. I mention it in this week’s blog because I have worked in San Bernardino now for over 15 years. The terrorist attack on December 2 hit very close to home.
Words we prefer not to hear
From a human perspective, waiting does not appear to have much of an advantage. We have come to expect (and should expect) that customer service be efficient and responsive. Spiritually, though, there are a lot of benefits to being put in a position where we are made to wait.
Three Thoughts of Thanksgiving from Psalm 95
It is so easy to grumble, as Israel did in the wilderness, despite all of the Lord’s provision for them. If we’re not focused on giving thanks, we also can harden our hearts and neglect to see God’s hand in our lives.
The “Sharing Economy”
The cover of the magazine said “Trust Me.” In it was an article that addressed a new frontier called the “sharing economy.”
The Inspiration of Limitations
Seeing someone who is thankful, persevering and joyful through hardships is a great reminder to all of us (suffering or not) that we are blessed people.
Veterans Day – A Symbol of Selflessness
A spirit of sacrifice and concern for others motivated Gabe, and he was often commended for his willingness to serve our country without complaint. However, he responded that Hannah was the greater hero for her sacrifice of being home without him.