It is inconceivable to me that so many would be indifferent and negligent about voting. I can understand the perception that one vote will not make a difference or choosing not to participate because of the lack of desirable options. But to fail to exercise responsible citizenship in voting is to ignore the incredible empowerment […]

A two-day gap between engagements in the eastern U.S. allowed us to veer our travels off the boring, fast-paced interstate and take the scenic by-ways through the Appalachian Mountains. The graciousness of ministerial discounts at LifeWay’s Ridgecrest Conference Center enabled us to enjoy an overnight in that beautiful setting near Black Mountain, NC. It was […]

We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you.” Colossians 1:3-6 Is anyone thankful for you? We would like to think that there are a few people who are glad that we were born on this earth and are thankful for what our life means to them. Surely […]

Most churches are committed to growth and adding members. There are some who are satisfied with their legacy of close-knit relationships and continue a cliquish fellowship in which outsiders never feel welcome. Others have given up on outreach, finding methods of attracting new members elusive. But most realize their purpose is to impact lostness and […]

Last week was highlighted by a delightful visit from Steve and Marie Goode, long-time friends from our days in Bangkok years ago. They still live in Thailand where they serve as director of Global Mercy Ministries with Youth With A Mission. Bobbye and Marie were in a close-knit women’s prayer group from 1984-88 and the […]

“For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6 Intercessory prayer is probably our most common category of supplication. Laying our own personal needs and concerns before the Father takes priority, but praying for family and […]

The last thing Bobbye would have ever wanted for her birthday last Saturday was to go to a football game. It is not that she doesn’t care for watching an occasional game on television, but as a birthday gift it would be appreciated about as much as receiving a new vacuum cleaner for a present. […]

“And to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:19 Recognizing Paul’s prayers reflect God’s will for us, we continue his supplication in Ephesians to be rooted and grounded in love. Last week we focused on the desire to be strengthened […]

We thought we would be with our grandchildren more than we have been–after all, isn’t that what retirement is supposed to be all about? With three of them living on the other side of the world and others entering into teenage years with their own busy schedules and activities, frequent leisure time together has yet […]

“For this reason, I bow my knees before the Father…that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man.” Ephesians 3:14, 16 Our previous devotional reflection on the prayers of Paul concluded in Ephesians 1:19 with the prayer that we might […]