2 Thessalonians 3:14-18Discipline is never easy and must always be administered with the goal of positive change. It is far easier for a parent to ignore a childish offense, but genuine love demands correction that produces a beneficial effect. Discipline in the Lord’s family must be administered with the purist of motives and tenderest of […]
Week 31
Week 31 Character |
Better Are the Peacemakers
Jesus came into the world during a period some might call a time of peace. Augustus Caesar had conquered most of the civilized world, establishing what became known as Pax Romana, or Roman Peace. However, Rome’s peace was that of an oppressor silencing opposition, peace through domination. The Hebrew people, subjects of the Roman Empire, […]
Week 30 Study |
Enough of Sin!
What parent has not said, “Enough already!”? This exclamation is usually given when the parent has one frazzled nerve left, and the children are standing on it. Some childish behaviors just need to stop. That is true of spiritual childishness, too. Paul told the Colossians what they needed to believe about Jesus but also how […]
Week 30 Application |
To Be Specific
The ancient Greek philosopher Pythagoras recommended, “Do not say a little in many words, but a great deal in a few.” That’s good advice for writers and public speakers. Here’s another helpful rule: Don’t speak in generalities; be specific. Don’t say “a few people” if you mean five astronauts. Don’t say “a long time ago” […]
Week 30 Mission |
A Whole New You
I remember going to the grocery store with my daughter, Aubrey, when she was 10 or 11 years old. I wore an old Cincinnati Reds t-shirt and a pair of red cotton shorts, white socks, and white tennis shoes. As we got out of the car and started walking side by side, I made my […]