“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 “What does God want from me, and what does he want for me?” These two big questions nag us throughout life. We try to decide on a career, a school, a souse - or even smaller things, like what book to read, film to see, or game to play. And we may wonder, “What does God want?” Well, one thing is clear: G...  Read More

“While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Acts 13:2I’ve read this passage numerous times before, but have you ever slowed down to think about it - the disciples “heard” the Holy Spirit speaking! We think of God speaking directly, or speaking through angels, or speaking through prophets or a...  Read More

“He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.” - Daniel 2:21As we have seen in previous weeks, God has always used his people in society. Daniel showed amazing courage in front of Nebuchadnezzar—the most powerful ruler in the world at that time. Nebuchadnezzar was merciless toward the leaders of nations who resist...  Read More

“If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will forsake you.”2 Chronicles 15:2Long ago in Israel things were bad, really bad. Why? Because, God’s people tried to live without the true God. It’s ironic that a nation called out by God and formed by God could forget God; but that’s exactly what they did! And what was the result? Disaster! But what do you think brought that ...  Read More

Have you ever had someone question your rightful authority? Have you ever given a truthful answer only to be called a liar, ridiculed, lectured, and mocked? Have you ever experienced ill consequences as a result of someone else’s false decision of who you are, your intentions, or your actions? If you have, you know how terrible you may feel as a result.And yet, this is exactly what Jesus faced! It...  Read More

Joshua went up to him and asked, ‘Are you for us or for our enemies?’ ‘Neither,’ he replied, ‘but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.’ - Joshua 5:14As we survey the Old Testament this week, one of the passages we will encounter gives instructions to circumcise all the Israelite soldiers before they go to battle. On the one hand, this makes no military sense. Blood loss from surge...  Read More