Certain things follow certain things. The important thing is to know what thing follows what thing for you. What are your sequences? Does anger follow tiredness? Does temptation follow spiritual highs? Does insight follow reading? Does relief follow rest? Even the Bible notes sequence. James tracks the birth and trajectory of sin. He notes certain pre-sin … [Read more...] about Sequence
Soul
What Is
I came across this quote the other day: “What is, is the great teacher.” This thought is simple but potentially profound. Every part of our everyday life can teach us. Every high and low. The chaos and the calm. Flat tires and traffic. Finances and rain. Fun and sorrow. Everything that is can teach us. Everything can teach us because God reigns. He is sovereign. He … [Read more...] about What Is
Coming to Stillness
Peruse a devotional book in the contemplative stream, and you will often find the initial call of every reading is first the call to “come to stillness.” Coming to stillness seems to be the hurdle of my personal devotion. The tasks of devotion are pleasant enough. Reading the Bible is often enjoyable and productive. The silent reflection I welcome. And I certainly have … [Read more...] about Coming to Stillness
Everyday Miracles
Imagine with me a strange scenario. Imagine you desperately need money. Hopeless, with no other options, you decide to pray. You pray for one hundred dollars. Here’s where it gets strange... What would be a better answer to your prayer? Option one: the hundred dollar bill miraculously floats down from the sky. Option two: a friend gives you one hundred dollars. Which … [Read more...] about Everyday Miracles
The Simple Life
If your life is like mine, it is probably anything but simple. Sports, school, plays, movies, practices, church, and any number of other family activities crowd life. Complexity and multi-tasking characterize our days. But we need simplicity. The Psalmist writes, “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him” (Psalm 37:7). Those words speak of a quiet way foreign to … [Read more...] about The Simple Life