Wouldn’t it be nice if Christians could enter a little room, push a button, and in a matter of seconds be instantly transformed from spiritual infants to spiritual giants? The physical maturation process does not work that way, and neither does the spiritual growth process. It takes effort, time, and discipline. No shortcuts exist for […]
MONDAY Reading for Today:Luke 6:17-26 Philippians 3:10-14 Psalm 119:161-168 2 Kings 16–17 2 Kings 16–17God’s patience is amazing. The northern kingdom of Israel lasted for just over 200 years and the entire time God’s preeminence was sorely compromised. The noise of idolatry, child sacrifice, and witchcraft drowned out God’s clarion call to repentance. For two […]
“Hey guys, please clean up the kitchen after dinner.” My two teenagers turn and give me the look. If you have teens or have ever had teens, you understand what I’m talking about. They reluctantly rise from their chairs and amble toward the kitchen, muttering under their breath. Of course, it’s really not fair to […]
The theme for the 2015 NACC was “We Speak.” President Mike Baker based the convention theme on Acts 4:20. Speaking is not the only way to advance the kingdom, but it is a primary way. John R. W. Stott said, “We speak because God has spoken” (Between Two Worlds). In these next four lessons we […]
The classic songs known as spirituals sprang from the passionate faith of African-Americans oppressed by slavery who lifted up their voices while working in the fields. Frederick Douglass, the former slave who became a prominent author and speaker, said spirituals “breathed the prayers and complaints of souls suffering the most cruel anguish.” Douglass admitted, “I […]
