It is all too common for us to question the Love of God for us. Circumstances and dissapointmemts daily attempt to rob us of the joy of resting securely in His love. I hope this old prose will encourage your heart today, as it does mine.

I sometimes think about the cross,
And shut my eyes, and try to see
The cruel nails, and crown of thorns,
And Jesus crucified for me.
Yet even could I see him die,
I could but see a part,
Of that great love, which like a fire
Is always burning in his heart.
(W. Walsham How)5

Let those who fear the Lord say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” (Psalm 118:4 ESV)

Words To Encourage (Jan 2, 2011) from Church of Living Water on Vimeo.

A short video to encourage you to start your week focused on God’s word and live life to the fullest.

“You desire and do not have…” [youversion](James 4:2)[/youversion]

James tells us that there are passions at war within us.  All of us who have wrestled with temptation can verify that statement through personal experience.  Last weekend I preached about the DEADLY results of hidden sin and the grace of God, in Jesus, to save us.  Little did I know…

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Sometimes Christian leaders get caught in the tension between Discipleship and Evangelism.  We debate which is more important, which should be the priority, which should deserve more resource and attention.   It can become a passionate and even frustrating argument.

In our Life Journal Reading this morning I read: (more…)

St. Ignatius of Loyola wrote the following in his “Spiritual Exercises”:

In times of dryness and desolation we must be patient, and wait with resignation for the return of consolation, putting our trust in the goodness of God.  We must animate ourselves by the thought that God is always with us, that He only allows this trial for our greater good, and that we have not necessarily lost His grace because we have lost the taste and feeling of it.“

Be encouraged today!  Even when we have lost the taste of His grace, He is NEAR.

“Jesus said this to test Phllip, for He himself already knew what He would do.” (John 6:6 Paraphrased )

I love the consistency of the scripture.  Consider these two passages from opposite ends of the Bible.  Today I read from Deuteronomy 32:7, "Remember the days of old, consider the years of all generations.  Ask your father, and he will inform you, your elders, and they will tell you."  Then consider the advice of the writer of Hebrews, "Remember those who led you, who spoke the word of God to you; and considering the result of their conduct, imitate their faith." (Hebrews 13:7)  It seems pretty clear that part of our Christian heritage is the foundation that has been laid for us generations ago.  So today I’m thinking about lessons from Bible patriarchs as well as some of the things my parents and grand parents have taught me about living life.  Here are some examples:

- Don’t be afraid to leave the comfort of home for the calling of heaven (Abram AKA Abraham)
- Don’t ever pass up a burning bush (Moses)
- Sometimes the pathway to influence is paved with disappointment (Joseph)
- Marry right, or it will cost you (Samson)
- God is not worried when our situation looks bleak, trust Him (Dad)
- Put others first and they will see God’s love through you (Mom)
- Prayer is the most sacred and powerful thing you possess (Grandma)
- Integrity and faithfulness are like a polished mirror that brightly reflects the heart of God (Grandpa)

What would you add?