What Is This About?
Love. Forgiveness. Mercy. Grace. Goodness. Compassion. Kindness. Generosity.
The Strength We Need
Paul was in prison when he wrote that he could be content no matter what his circumstances. His inner peace and joy remained the same whether abased or abounding, whether hungry or full (Philippians 4:12). He explained how he could be this kind of person: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" (v.13).
One String
Italian violinist Niccolo Paganini (1782-1840) was playing a difficult piece of music before a large audience. Suddenly one string on his violin snapped, yet he continued to play, improvising beautifully. Then two more strings broke, and he completed the composition playing with only one string.
The Object Of Our Faith
Suppose someone asks you to take a ride in his single-engine plane. You politely decline. Why? Well, you've heard that the plane has a history of mechanical problems and you don't have confidence in its safety. The pilot assures you that he fearlessly entrusts his life to it whenever he flies. You still decline. A few weeks later the plane crashes, and he is killed. An investigation shows that the engine was faulty. The pilot had strong faith—but it was faith in a faulty object.
Looking For The Obvious
A service station should provide what its name implies. Yet gas stations that offer free service seem to be a thing of the past.
Columbine Redefined
For most of my life the word columbine brought to mind the beautiful state flower of Colorado. But all that changed on April 20, 1999, with the tragic shootings at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado. The violent actions of two hate-filled students changed the meaning of the word for me, and for countless others.
Growing Wise
Solomon was a young man charged with the responsibility of governing one of the most prosperous kingdoms in the ancient Near East. Israel was a significant power then, her domain extending from the Euphrates River to the border of Egypt. Responsible for so much, Solomon knew he needed help. So when God asked the young king what He could do for him, Solomon did not ask to be healthy or wealthy. He asked to be wise (1 Kings 3:9). This request pleased the Lord.
God's Favorites
After my first daughter was born, I loved her so much that it almost hurt. I foolishly feared I might not be able to love our next child as much, or that I might have to divide my love between them to be fair. But when our second daughter arrived, I joyfully discovered that I loved her as intensely as I loved our first child, yet uniquely.
Loosening Our Grip
An American tourist traveled to Poland to visit with a respected religious teacher who was known for his wisdom. The visitor noticed that the man's room had nothing but a table, a chair, and some books. Puzzled by such austerity, he asked, "Where is your furniture?" The teacher answered, "My furniture? Where is your furniture, my friend?" The American protested, "Furniture? But I am only a tourist passing through." "So am I," said the man.
