In our relationships with each other, we tend to assume a certain reality that is quite different from the full truth of a matter. So, when misunderstandings occur, our assumptions have the potential of erecting barriers in our relationships without realizing it. This major barrier to proper relationships is our proclivity to make assumptions to āunchecked perceptionsā, often leading us to jump to incorrect conclusions. It probably wouldnāt be a prolonged mental exercise to think about our … [Read more...] about Examining Our Assumptions
Repentance and Conversion
Godly Respect
While a large majority of people would agree that respect is a crucial factor in society, the lack of respect ā disrespect ā continues to increase in the world around us. Two areas of society where disrespect is most witnessed are education and politics. But disrespect permeates all areas of society, not only in the U.S., but around the globe. Personal relationships are severed by divisive arguments instead of healed through respectful discussions. Interestingly, God's way to … [Read more...] about Godly Respect
A Spirit of Truth
What makes God's truth so powerful? In the Scriptures, God refers to Himself as the God of truth. Also, Christ says that He is the way...and the truth. And likewise, Godās Holy Spirit is called the Spirit of truth! But what can the truth do for us? āThen Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, 'If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free,ā' (John 8:31-32). Godās truth can set us freeāif we continue steadfastly in … [Read more...] about A Spirit of Truth
Squander Not This Opportunity
Some years ago, featured on a 60 Minutes program was a musical performance, āAlive & Kickināā. The cast was all over fifty-five. Their stories were deeply compelling; overcoming drug addiction, renewing life after a criminal past, and family tragedy. These were individuals who, due to the vagaries of life, missed opportunities to sing and perform. They were castaways being given a second chance to find their voice. In a sense, God has given each of us a second chance to live a radically … [Read more...] about Squander Not This Opportunity
Training to Be Leaders
The early 1900ās was a heroic age of exploration. Limits were pushed on all fronts and among these was the British Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition led by Ernest Shackleton. From 1914 to 1916, the expedition was to cross Antarctica. They had priorities and a sense of urgency. Shackleton chose his team of twenty-seven officers, scientists, and seamen carefully, not hiding the danger, nor the glory if successful. After the Endurance was destroyed by winterās ice in the Weddell Sea, … [Read more...] about Training to Be Leaders
Remaining Steadfast
Godās Church is central to His plan of salvation for all mankind as a precursor of the āpouring outā of His Holy Spirit on all humanity. But that profound impact is difficult to grasp because the Churches are mostly ignored by the world today. What can we do now to ensure that we stay strong and donāt fall prey to discouragement? There is a process to help us succeed. The beginning of the book of James gets right to it: āMy brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, … [Read more...] about Remaining Steadfast
Self-Examination: Are We in the Faith
We are subjected to all kinds of tests throughout our lifetime. Some are routine, but others are unavoidable, deeply personal tests: peer pressure, emotional suffering, financial upheaval, and temptation. With a fear of failure, we usually donāt consider these as positive experiences. However, with good preparation we can face self-examination confidently. āTest yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves! Or do you not recognize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is … [Read more...] about Self-Examination: Are We in the Faith