Does it seem to you that some Christians expect God, like a personal assistant, to keep everything on schedule and on an even keel? They might not express it that way, but their rush to hold him in contempt when Plan A is upset, delayed, or becomes altogether defunct, is pretty telling. To be disappointed …
Loving the unpredictable God (part 5)
[This is the final post on this topic of "Loving the unpredictable God." I hope it's given you not only food for thought but fuel for your journey. If it has, pass it on to a few friends who need the same.] THE FRIGHTENING FREEDOM TO CHOOSE After watching a football game with a bunch …
Pastor, don’t lose your head (or anything else for that matter)! Part 2
But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at bringing others to Christ. Complete the ministry God has given you. 2 Timothy 4:5 NLT In Part 1 we talked about the first of four important pieces of advice that Paul gave Timothy in this …
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Avoiding the “Mediocre Middle” (Part 3)
In Parts 1 & 2 I’ve been talking about the “suffer-well” versus the “get-well” options for the Jesus follower who is going through difficult times. The conundrum is – am I supposed to endure this pain or escape it? It’s near blasphemy to some people to think that God would purposely leave any of his …
Avoiding the “Mediocre Middle” (Part 2)
In Part 1 I talked about the tension between having faith to “suffer well” and faith to “get well.” Sometimes God has his reasons for miraculously making us well and at other times he gives us the strength to suffer well. The same God who said to Moses, “I am the Lord who heals you,” …
