Assault And Flattery
A stand-up comedian has provided a couple of one-liners that, when combined, can provide us with a spiritual parallel. He said, "I looked high and low for you, but I didn't look low enough." He also joked, "I have a considerate doctor. If you can't afford the operation, he touches up the x-rays."
Home Improvement
If you've ever wanted to live in a castle, this is your chance. The state of Saxony in eastern Germany has a dozen castles for sale, each priced at one German mark (which is just over half a US dollar).
Compassion For The Poor
Many people have little sympathy for the poor in their community because they assume they are lazy and irresponsible. Others say that the problem is with a government welfare system that is inefficient and often abused. But it is wrong to say that all poor people deserve their plight.
A Grateful Heart
Some people have turned complaining into an art form. If you say, "I don't have anything to complain about," they are happy to offer some suggestions. They count their many blessings and then complain that there aren't more of them.
Safe In His Arms
Aleta Danforth has been a missionary in the Congo (formerly Zaire) since 1979. She was heartbroken when they had to leave the country in 1997. A tribal war that began in Rwanda was sweeping toward them across the country. Soldiers were finally seen in their area, so Aleta, her family, and their fellow missionaries had to say goodbye to their good friends.
Pay To Pray?
Several years ago a news report told about a preacher who promised to sell blessings on the installment plan. Incredible as it sounds, he offered 12 monthly blessings for $84. Anyone who wanted his prayers could fill out a coupon and send $7 a month for one year. Hinting that his prayers have brought people financial rewards, he promised to send a "blessing certificate" when he received the first payment, and an "anointed billfold" with the second. Of course, there was no money-back guarantee.
Disappearing Act
What if suddenly one day all followers of Christ disappeared? What if we all just vanished?
Encouraging Examples
The couple's example of love and compassion was an encouragement to me. They were in their early forties and had three children of their own when the Lord led them to take in four foster children, all siblings less than 4 years old. A month later, the woman found out she was pregnant!
Worth The Wait
Oh, how we hate to be kept waiting, especially by God. Why does He sometimes make us wait?
