One of the central themes found in the bible is that of faithfulness. There is a Latin term that has been adopted by many groups and entities to convey the importance of faithfulness. The term is Semper Fidelis, which means âalways faithfulâ or âalways loyal.â A shortened version has been adopted by the United States Marine Corp as its motto, simply - Semper Fi. However, there is not a group that this term applies to more than the Church of God. The following three observations will keep … [Read more...] about Semper Fi
Godly Attributes
Choose Life
As God prepared Israel for its occupation of the land of Canaan â the land He had promised them â He firmly reminded them of the centrality of His law to their existence. He told them that His commandments were near to them â in their hearts (Deuteronomy 30:11-14). Godâs law set two clear and distinct ways of life before them. On the one hand was life and good, while on the other was death and evil. The law defined these two ways, so they were clearly discernable. The assault on Godâs law … [Read more...] about Choose Life
True or Rotten Miracles?
The âGreen Revolutionâ of the mid 1940s through the 1960s has long been touted as an âagricultural miracle.â It was then that researchers began genetically altering various grains such as corn, wheat, and rice. Additionally, the seedâs yield was maximized by using chemical fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. The dramatic increase in production enabled importer nations to soon become exporters. This agricultural miracle would presumably save humanity from famine as its population … [Read more...] about True or Rotten Miracles?
Blessings Will Come
I told someone once, âGod is going to bless you with the opportunity to develop into the best kind of character you can have. He may bless you physically, but mostly Heâs going to give you the blessings of learning, and growing, and overcoming.â As man looks to God in faith, He will bless us to accomplish His purpose, and not necessarily our own. Yet, it is tempting to think of the blessings of God as merely physical. The remnant of Judah that returned to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem … [Read more...] about Blessings Will Come
How Do We Use Authority?
When we consider biblical authority and how we should use authority, do we consider it from manâs perspective or God's perspective? The disciples came to Christ and asked Him a basic question, who would have the preeminent position â to sit at his right and left hand (Matthew 20:21-27). Sitting at the Kingâs right and left hand by its very definition implies position, power and the ability to exercise authority â which in human terms implies the ability to control others. Christâs response to … [Read more...] about How Do We Use Authority?
Perspectives from the Prodigal Son
We are familiar with the biblical story of the prodigal son. The story resonates with many due to the emotional reunion of a wayward son and his patient and merciful father. It is a story we can all relate to naturally because, like the son, we have all made our share of mistakes and decisions we wish we had never made â with the associated regret. We may yearn for redemption from the consequences of past actions, but do not know the way. This world is not good at forgiving and forgetting. But … [Read more...] about Perspectives from the Prodigal Son
Viewpoints from the Prodigal Son
The parable of the prodigal son, which is found in only one gospel account (Luke 15), appears to be a simple story of redemption. After a son wastes his inheritance and finds himself in a hopeless, oppressive situation, he comes to himself, returns to his father, and enjoys a joyous reception. The parable acquired its name from the one son who fell into extravagant and reckless, or âprodigalâ, living. There are important lessons to be learned when we view the parable from a certain … [Read more...] about Viewpoints from the Prodigal Son