If we walk in the light, as God is in the light, … the blood of God’s Son Jesus cleanses us from all sin. … If we confess our sins, God is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:7–9 The one thing that we can … Continue reading
The diseased boy’s father said, “If you are able to do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” Then Jesus said to him, “‘If you are able?’ All things are possible for the one who believes.” Mark 9:22–23 When Jesus knew he needed power for engaging in the ministry God had given him to … Continue reading
“Exult in tribulation.” says Romans 5:3. And James joins with Paul, telling us to “count it all joy when you meet various trials” (James 1:2). But how is it possible to do this when life’s adversities inflict real pain and seem to darken our future prospects? These commands seem nonsensical until we remember that God’s … Continue reading
By the fruit of your mouth your hunger will be satisfied; you will be filled with the product of your lips. Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love that power will eat its fruit. Proverbs 18:20–21 We can confidently hope to “speak what is good for building up” … Continue reading
Just before the Passover feast, Jesus knew that his time had come to depart from this world to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now loved them to the very end. … Jesus knew that the Father had handed all things over to him, and that he had come … Continue reading
The centurion said, “Just say the word, and my servant will be healed.” … When Jesus heard this, he marveled and exclaimed, “I have not found such great faith with anyone in Israel.” Matthew 8:8–10 We know that during Jesus’ three years of ministry in Israel, he traveled around the country proclaiming the good news … Continue reading
Not all have faith; therefore pray that we may be delivered from perverse and evil men. But the Lord is faithful, who will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 2 Thessalonians 3:2–3 It seems obvious that not everyone knows and trusts God. So why bring it up? We need to be reminded because … Continue reading
A famous hymn opens with the words, “What various hindrances we meet, in coming to the mercy seat.” Farther on the hymn gives some indication of why we find it so hard to pray: Restraining prayer, we cease to fight; Prayer makes the Christian armor bright. And Satan trembles when he sees The weakest saint … Continue reading