A Merry Heart
Are only a few fortunate people born with a bright outlook on life, or is optimism an attitude we can learn?
A Gentle Witness
In our Bible reading today, we see how followers of Christ can be tolerant of people of diverse religious beliefs without compromising their Christian convictions.
What Is Heavy When Empty?
After reading Isaiah 1, I thought of this riddle: What is heavy for God when it's empty for me?
Igor And Me
When I was in Siberia, my friend Igor and I stopped at a store. Just outside the door a large, mean-looking dog snarled at us and would not let us inside. After a while the store owner came out, and to my surprise he shot the dog. So Igor and I went in.
Out Of Our Minds
Why would a prison inmate escape from prison the day before his scheduled release? That's what a Rhode Island prison spokesman wondered as he answered questions from reporters. He said, "For the life of me, I don't know what possessed him to leave with only one day of his sentence left to serve." Once captured, the escapee would be arraigned on charges that could land him back in prison for up to 20 years.
Living In The Fire
Just before darkness settled, the Israelites who stood on the walls of Jerusalem saw with dismay the mighty Assyrian army surrounding the city. But at dawn the enemy camp was deserted, and thousands of dead soldiers lay scattered on the ground. What awe and gratitude must have filled the hearts of godly Israelites—but the wicked were terrified!
Making The Most Of Time
We tend to read Ephesians 5:16 as if Paul is calling believers to action because the days are short, but that's not what he meant. He said we are to make the most of time "because the days are evil."
The Hope Of The Heart
Promises are the hope of our heart. A child's security depends on a parent's promise to keep him or her safe. A spouse can live with confidence because of a mate's promise of fidelity, loyalty, and love. Businesses depend on promises from employees, vendors, and clients. Countries remain safe when neighbors keep their promise to honor their borders.
Understanding Parents
Wise children will want to please their parents. First, though, they must understand them. As any teenager knows, parents are tough to figure out. These seven tips may help:
