…your life has new meaning!

Competent Thinking
     'Voice of Inspiration' from Andy Castro

The popular statement is: “We are on a journey.” As a Christian I prefer to say: “We are in a battle for our promise land.” It doesn’t sound like fun but it gives me a clear picture of my life on this earth. Don’t get me wrong, I still have a good time and can be a jokester. Having said that, we all know this life will relentlessly beat you to the ground if you are not on guard. Marriage can be hard. Staying out of debt can be hard. Dealing with your kids, boss or co-workers can be hard. Not falling under condemnation can be very hard. So…

Beware: suneudokeo - feel gratified with
     'Refreshment in Refuge' from Gina Burgess

The "Gay Rights" advocates had a hay day with the Supreme Court ruling this week. But, the laws of the land are still the same. There are still 38 states that outright ban same sex marriages with constitutions defining marriage between one man and one woman. The judicial courts do not make laws, and in California, a district court cannot negate a law voted on by the people. So the debate rages on... I read one of the best discussions on the public debate that homosexuality is a sin argument. Of course we Christians know it is a sin, but we are all sinners.…

Religious Disinterest
     ''Christ in You...'' from Dale Krebbs

Why? To a large extent this is caused by so many conflicting messages, doctrines, beliefs, etc., and the example set by nominal Christians. Many set bad examples in claiming to be living a Christian life without evidence of bearing the fruit of it. Many non-Christians are simple weary of the maze while attempting to sort it all out. Often they see and hear only the tares. (They seem to make the most noise). In situations such as this, God the Father will cause those who are called to His Son to be drawn to Him, regardless of the confusion. God knows who are to be His, regardless…

A Day For Love
     'Inspiration For You' from Randy Mitchell

Its Valentine's Day week, that wonderful time of year when significant others spend a little time expressing, and sharing their common attraction. For many, it’s a time of reflection, a day of sharing that certain chemistry bringing souls together, a period of needed sexual bliss, an occasion where hearts communicate a little bit deeper, and even moments when personalities come together for the very first time. In the fifty years I’ve been alive, I’ve experienced, desired, wanted, expressed, shared, rejected, and written about love. I’ve wanted to be…

Bible and Quote - October 28 - November 01
     'Bible verse and quote' from Jan Couns

Let those who love Your salvation say continually, "Let God be magnified." Psalm 70:4b The children of God pant to be saved from every false way. They are grateful for God’s salvation that saves them from selfishness, from pride, from lust, from worldliness, bitterness, malice, sloth, and uncleanness. CH Spurgeon 1834-92Brit Reformed Baptist But I am afflicted and needy; Hasten to me, O God! You are my help and my deliverer; O Lord, do not delay. Psalm 70:5 Give me grace to recall my needs, rather than seeking my own ends. Valley of Vision, Puritan Prayers…

Bible Hero- Mary Magdalene
     'God's Words For US' from Cecelia Lester

Jesus released Mary Magdalene from the torture of seven demons. She was completely controlled by them. Before Jesus drove those demons out, we get a picture of Mary. “. . . bereft of will and reason, with vacuous eyes, screaming and tearing at her clothes.'1 After Jesus healed her, “She is thought to been beautiful and gracious. Her love was warm and glowing.”2She felt so grateful to her Lord that she, like other women who had received healing, became one of His followers. Mary exuded warmth and love. Her thankfulness was as noticeable to others as her…

In the King's Hall
     'Chip Shots from the Ruff of Life' from Tom Kelley

The recent flap over deposed Treasury Secretary Paul O'Neill has raised some eyebrows concerning the plans of President Bush when he first took office. According to documentation provided by O'Neill, Bush had plans to attack Iraq and remove and capture Saddam Hussein early in the administration. O'Neill's comments, documents and such are the focal point of a new book written by Ron Suskind, The Price Of Loyalty. Other Bush informants are cited in the book concerning their observations and knowledge of the President. Such things are not new. Practically every administration…

The Scandalous Gospel
     ''Winging It' from Stan Smith

Jesus assures us that the world will hate us (John 15:19). Given. Paul says that our Gospel -- our good news -- is offensive (1 Corinthians 1:18). Why is that? I can't make sense of it based on the gospel I hear in so many places. There's the "Jesus loves you, so come" gospel. That is warm and friendly and inviting. Why would it be offensive? There is the therapeutic gospel, the "God has a solution to all your problems" gospel. How can that be a bad thing? There is the "God has a wonderful plan for your life" gospel. Okay, maybe that might edge…

A Mitzvah for a Fool
     'The Way' from Kevin Pauley

When arguing with fools, don’t answer their foolish arguments, or you will become as foolish as they are. When arguing with fools, be sure to answer their foolish arguments, or they will become wise in their own estimation. – Proverbs 26:4-5 Have you ever had to deal with a fool? You know – bull headed, ignorant, unteachable, absolutely convinced of the rightness of their cause contrary to all evidence and good sense, easily angered, thin skinned, and self-righteous – a fool. Of course you have – we all have. The Bible has sound advice for dealing…

Chicken or Egg?
     'Today's Little Lift' from Jim Bullington

Of course you have heard the age-old conundrum, “Which came first; the chicken or the egg?” It has been the subject of many a heated debate. Did you ever stop to question why this puzzle is so difficult to answer? Have you ever seriously considered the implications of the fact that this enigma has survived over the years and still captivates the minds of many? Well, if I may, I’d like to take a crack at this one (pun intended!). First, please observe that as the question is posed, there are only two answers from which one is allowed to choose. If there is a third…

God's Promises Regarding Giving
     'Word from Scotland' from Sandy Shaw

We come to that time of the year when many think about ‘giving’ and God has much to say and teach us about ‘giving’. There is more said in the Gospels about ‘giving’ that on any other one subject. ‘Promise’ and ‘Promises’ are used over a thousand times in……