A recent conversation with a friend of mine led me to consider the difference between entertainment and art. The difference is that entertainment seeks to distract from the difficulty of life, while art draws us in and seeks to shape how we understand it. Entertainment closes our eyes to the world for a few moments…

If we’re honest, many of our churches do not do a great job at ministering to singles. Many of our events and ministries are aimed toward couples or families and singles in our churches can sometimes feel like second class citizens. So how can we ensure that we serve them well? 1. Don’t quarantine them…

This past week our family was reading the story of Jesus raising Jairus’ daughter. I explained to our four daughters that all who trust Jesus will experience just what this girl did. We all will lay in the sleep of death but if we trust in Jesus, He will say to us on the final…

Prayer is a hard discipline to master; there are so many things I fight against. Did I pray long enough? Did I pray fervently enough? Why did I fall asleep during that last prayer time? Am I even really talking to God or just thinking to myself? These are all things that I have wrestled…

The Secret Small Churches Know Best – Witmer gives sound, insightful analysis and encouragement to those serving in small churches. I found myself being exposed and encouraged as I read. A key line: “Yes, prayerfully improve what we can. Yes, plead with God for conversions. And then receive – as a gift from God –…

This past week I had to be hospitalized as an unidentified virus was breaking down the muscles in my legs. It brought both severe pain, leaving me virtually unable to walk, and fear, as the unknown infection threatened to enter my bloodstream. By God’s grace, the infection subsided and I have improved physically each day.…

Disagreement is as American as apple pie. In our day, it seems everyone has an opinion and we are so quick to assert our own against somebody else’s. In this post, I’d like to offer some considerations for how we can express disagreement with Christian charity and a sincere desire for truth and understanding. 1.…

I just got back in to town from a conference in Minneapolis where my heart was encouraged, my mind was challenged, and I was able to re-connect with old friends while also connecting with new ones. Here’s my brief exhortation to you: Go to conferences! Take people from your church! And take as many opportunities…

Back again on this Wednesday, here are some links for your encouragement and edification: Ask Ligonier: A Place for Answers – This remarkable new feature from Ligonier Ministries offers the ability to ask any theological question anytime of day and have real live answers from qualified men and women. How Can I Best Support My…

We’re going to be introducing a new element of the blog in 2018 called Worth a Look Wednesday where we will offer some helpful links we have come across over the past week for your edification and encouragement. Previously we had done this once a month but starting this week we’ll have articles on a…