Supernatural Joy and Genuine Love
Trials change our perspective, don't they? When sorrow strikes, the little things we thought were so important fade into the periphery. In 1 Peter 1:6-9, the Apostle Peter teaches us why trials are not only critical to the deepening of our faith, but also to the deepening of our joy.
Chain Reaction of Praise
Would it change the attitude of a hungry beggar to tell him he would soon receive a fortune? Would it change the perspective of a wounded soldier to tell him he would soon receive a medal of honor? Peter tells us that Christ is reserving for us an eternal inheritance in heaven. Is that changing your attitude today?
The Trinity . . . At Work
Our finite minds can only understand a fraction of the triune nature of God, but that fraction will change our perspective entirely. Stephen brings us a profoundly practical lesson on Theology Proper.
Chosen . . . With Enthusiasm
Peter didn't point to the doctrine of election so that philosophers and theologians could have something to argue about over a cup of tea. He pointed to it so that isolated Christians could have hope in the midst of suffering.
Introducing an Old Fisherman, Part 2
Christians throughout the empire are being marginalized and scattered and many of them are questioning whether God has abandoned them. Who better to remind them of God's unfailing grace than Peter?
Introducing an Old Fisherman, Part 1
Christians throughout the empire are being marginalized and scattered and many of them are questioning whether God has abandoned them. Who better to remind them of God's unfailing grace than Peter?
The Meaning of Life
In these final verses of Ecclesiastes, Solomon reflects on his journey to find truth, describes where that truth comes from, and then shares some final wisdom for his son from his life experience. As Stephen opens Solomon's journal for the final time in this series, he shares why these life truths are just as important today as they were when King Solomon sat on the throne of Israel.
Before the Final Awakening
King Solomon issues a warning: Death is not the final slumbering, death is the final awakening! Since life is short, with just a breath between you and death, it's vital to remember your Creator! Remembering your Creator means you won't become misguided in your youth -- you'll walk with Him. Remembering your Creator means you won't become miserable in your old age -- you'll trust Him. And remembering your Creator means you won't be mistaken at your death -- you believe in Him.
How to Maximize Your Life
To the young, Solomon pulls his chair up close and says, "Listen; this is God’s Word; this is God's design; this is God's protection. Put sin as far away from you as you can. I want you to enjoy your youth; I want you to make the most of it, but you've got to do it God's way. God knows what's best; God created you, and God wants you to enjoy the gift of life He's given you. So: enjoy these early years thoroughly, invest these early years wisely, and guard these early years carefully."
Living With the Unexplainable and Unexpected
There are many things in life we can't predict; don't let the unexpected events of life paralyze you with fear. There are a lot of mysteries too. But don't let the unexplainable mysteries of God's work in your life rob you of joy. While there is the sweet light of day -- this day which God has made, let's make the most of it -- for the glory of God.