Category: Daily Devotions

“Be patient, then … until the Lord’s coming.” (James 5:7) The dictionary defines patience as “the capacity to endure without complaint something difficult or disagreeable.” Patience is synonymous with forbearance and longsuffering. Our patience is tested when a goal we desire or expect is threatened or delayed. A simple thing like being stuck in traffic…

“We continually remember … your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 1:3 ) When they think about life, lots of people say they love the journey but aren’t much interested in the destination. Anna Quindlen, in her book A Short Guide to a Happy Life, writes, “Life is good. I…

“We do not want you to … grieve like the rest … who have no hope.” (1 Thessalonians 4:13) The dictionary defines grief as “a keen, mental suffering, or distress over loss.” Philosophy teacher Nick Wolterstorff states that suffering occurs “when something prized or loved is ripped away or never granted.” None of us escapes…

“Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with … the anxieties of life …” (Luke 21:34 ) The New York Times carried the story of a miner who had been trapped for 16 hours deep under the mountains of Colorado. Tons of rock blocked his escape. Water was slowly filling the mine. To…

“As you sent me into the world [Father], I have sent them into the world.” (John 17:18) The Bible describes Jesus’ followers in a number of ways. We are called forgiven sinners, adopted sons and daughters, and beloved members of the body of Christ. All of these are key aspects of who we are in…

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) One of the things Jesus wants his followers to understand is that the way forward for them will not be easy. As we saw…

“But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, ‘This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.’” (Luke 15:2) The Bible says concerning the Prodigal Son: “When he was a great way off, his father … had compassion … ran … fell on his neck and kissed him.” The truth is, you’re not beyond…

“I will … praise your name for your unfailing love and your faithfulness.” (Psalm 138:2a) It’s quite easy to complain, isn’t it? Standing in the line at the supermarket, I happened to overhear two people having a real chinwag about all the things that were wrong in their lives. As we moved forward towards the…

“A quick-tempered man does foolish things, and a crafty man is hated.” (Proverbs 14:17) The truth is that when your temper gets the best of you, it reveals the worst of you. The Bible says three things about unrighteous anger that you need to keep in mind: It’s stupid. “A quick-tempered man acts foolishly, and…